Newsletter 16

13th June 2025David Ayres

Friday 13th June

Co-headteachers’ welcome

We hope that all had a restful half term, and that the start to Summer 2 has been an exciting one. As Year 9 begin their GCSE preferences, public exams continue in Year 11 and Year 13, and enrichment from trips to music and sports is plentiful across the all-through school, it has certainly been a busy fortnight. We are looking forward to sharing achievements and success with parents, including, for example, with the Year 4 multiplication check (brilliant results to share) and the Year 1 phonics screening expectations check (equally brilliant progress and achievements which stand our young people in great stead for their ongoing learning journey).

With one foot very firmly in the here and now, it is an exciting time for all in team music. For our individual instrumentalists and singers, many – in fact 130 in total – are busy preparing for Trinity exams. This is an exceptionally high number, the most we have had in one month! As part of this, we have 5 students taking diplomas (normally expected to be a standard achieved at University, even for the most talented of musicians) – good luck to them all. Please do gently nag and positively encourage as parents the daily practice we know will lead to success. Performances for team music in the coming weeks include: Rock Gig at the Corn Exchange (12 bands); Years 2 and 3 strings and choirs (over 80 musicians!); Slice of Summer choir performances; and, of course, the much anticipated tour to Ghent. Saffron Hall has been in many, many families calendars since the extravaganza of July 2024 – and this year, we guarantee, will not disappoint – with 750+ of our school community contributing – no spoilers here! Music really is thriving at Simon Balle All-through School, and, as such, it is a great time to be introducing our music aptitude admissions rule for Year 7 2026-2027. Please read all information on our website here – please do share on neighbours, friends, families and more, including those living in the wider villages for whom this admissions rule will apply. 

We have one foot too in the exciting world of transition, with very young people preparing to join us in Reception; Year 6 – both Larch graduates and new joiners from across our primary feeder schools – joining us in Year 7; Year 11 considering their sixth form pathways; and all of our wonderful 1600 students preparing for changes as they journey on to the next year. We pride ourselves on high levels of support and information aplenty to anticipate and look forward to the multitude of opportunities to come. Staff are exceptionally busy now visiting nurseries and primary schools, speaking and meeting 1:1 with parents and students, and planning staffing and groupings, to enable flourishing for all, academically and holistically. For those in the Larch, a staffing letter will follow next week so that you have clarity to support children in preparing for transition day on Thursday 10th July – a very exciting day in our calendar! It is always a privilege to prepare to support the growth of all, and to welcome new families and students at every phase – thank you in anticipation for your ongoing engagement with us. Please remember: strong schools, supportive homes: together we care, together they thrive. 

Finally, and certainly most importantly, this week more than ever, we have felt the strength of our incredibly special Simon Balle community. At the heart of this are our shared values, especially kindness and compassion, which shape everything we do and stand for. Please may we thank you all – students, staff, parents/carers, and governors/trustees – for your overwhelming support. In these most challenging times, our community has shown not only resilience but a deep, unwavering care for one another. May that powerful sense of belonging to Simon Balle, and the values that unite us, remain of the utmost importance to us all – in the best of times and in those, like now, that are poignant beyond words. It is always a privilege to walk with you all.

Reception’s Trip to Hertfordshire Zoo

On Thursday 5th June, Reception went on a trip to Hertfordshire Zoo. Despite the weather forecast for rain, spirits were high and the children were excited to get onto the double decker coach! This term we are learning all about Animals, so this was going to be the perfect way to start our topic. When we arrived, we split into our groups and began exploring the Zoo. Some highlights from the children were; being squirted with water by the dinosaur, seeing the lions being fed, learning about the giant tortoise and of course having a picnic lunch! 

We were so proud of the children who demonstrated so many of our school values. They were responsible as they were walking around the enclosures and staying with their group and showed respect to all. There was so much kindness observed as the children looked after each other. They showed courage to ask good questions to the Zoo Keeper’s to help extend their understanding. We had a great trip and are excited to continue our learning about Animals back at school this half term. 

Visit of Josh Dean MP

Students across the all-through school were recently given a unique glimpse into the world of politics during a visit from local MP for Hertford and Stortford, Josh Dean. Speaking to a range of students throughout the day, and responding to a variety of pre-prepared questions from the a level politics class, Mr Dean offered an engaging and thoughtful look at life in Westminster, drawing on his personal journey from young political activist to elected representative.

The Q&A session was both informative and inspiring, with students taking the opportunity to ask well-informed, probing questions on topical issues from the war in Gaza to the question of lowering the voting age for general elections. Mr Dean also discussed the daily realities of parliamentary work, highlighting his work on the modernisation committee in trying to make politics more inclusive, accessible and reflective of modern Britain.

We were delighted that Mr Dean could also attend both a KS2 assembly and a session of our school parliament, during which students reported on the work they have undertaken this year and the changes to school life that they have overseen.

Mr Dean shared his views on the importance of democratic education in schools, stressing that understanding how democracy functions is vital for the next generation of voters and leaders. He also spoke candidly about how political parties evolve in response to public opinion and election results, offering real-world examples of how adaptability and reflection are key to political success.

Students left each of the sessions with a deeper understanding of the political process and a renewed interest in civic engagement. We are grateful to Mr Dean for his time and insight, and we hope to welcome him back in the future.

BMX Champion Visit to The Larch!

On Monday 2nd June, The Larch was thrilled to welcome Mike Mullen — a six-time BMX halfpipe champion and former World Master Champion.

The day began with an inspiring and action-packed assembly, where Mike shared the story of his BMX journey. He amazed everyone with a thrilling demonstration, including a spectacular 360° spin!

Later in the day, Year 5 had the fantastic opportunity to take part in a workshop led by Mike. The children used ramps, stood on the bike frames, and even challenged themselves to ride without holding the handlebars! They learned and practiced a range of tricks, each one helping them build confidence and coordination.

We were incredibly proud of how the pupils showed courage, determination, and resilience throughout the session — well done, Year 5 and a huge thank you to Mike!

Attendance

We are really pleased to share that our school has yet again been recognised for our excellent attendance levels, this time during the Spring Term.

Reporting on-the-day absences – The Arbor App

Our school attendance is excellent but there can be illnesses and other legitimate reasons for absence from school. Whilst many parents call or email us to report these absences, our preferred method of notification is by use of the Arbor app. Please see the following images which show you how you can do this. We thank parents in advance for using this method which will save valuable time for our admin staff.

Science

National Scientific Thinking Challenge

Year 10 recently took part in the annual National Scientific Thinking Challenge, which saw over 15000 students entered nationally.

From our entries:

  • 10% achieved a Gold award
  • 7% achieved a Silver award.
  • A further 14% achieved a Bronze award.

We had over 100 entries and all students who took part have a participation award which will be shared with students in the coming weeks.

We, as a Science department, could not be prouder of their successes. Well done Year 10.

UK Intermediate Biology Challenge
46 of our Year 10 Biology students competed in the UK Intermediate Biology Challenge in May.  This consisted of two, 25 minute multiple choice questions based on what they are studying along with some application questions providing quite a challenge as these covered topics not yet fully covered.
We would like to congratulate all the students for completing the Challenge and all receiving certificates!
Four students achieved above 90% and so were awarded a Gold certificate.  Many congratulations to Nitika J, Edward B, Jacob G and James C.
Our Silver certificate students, who achieved between 86-95% were Alex S, Elizabeth N, Albert A and James T-
C.
Again a huge well done to all the students involved!

Online Safety

This week’s free #WakeUpWednesday guide breaks down the key safety concerns around generative AI tools and offers expert advice for keeping young users safe. From encouraging critical thinking to safeguarding their privacy, find out how to help children use AI safely and smartly generative-ai-safety-guide

Hertfordshire Clean Air Day – Thursday 19th June 2025

It’s really important to keep our air clean, so children’s lungs can develop and grow properly.

We all know the health benefits of walking so please help us to reduce congestion, by supporting children being more active and lower carbon emissions on this year’s Clean Air Day.

We would like to encourage all our pupils to try and walk, cycle or scoot to school. If it is not possible to walk all the way, then it would be great if you could park 10 minutes away from school and walk or scoot on the last part of your journey.

If you do drive to school, please do not to leave your cars idling or “ticking over”, especially near schools and even consider leaving the car at home at least once a week.

We appreciate all your support for a healthier future.

SEND

If you would like to speak to a member of the SEND team, please schedule a virtual appointment of up to 15 minutes by using the following link: Virtual SEND Team Appointments

Welcome to the Hertfordshire SEND News bulletin – May 2025.

Read SEND News here

In this issue: 

Please let us know if you have any problems viewing this e-newsletter or if you have any articles to contribute to the next edition by emailing sendnews@hertfordshire.gov.uk

Library News

New comfy seating

The new comfy seating for reading in the secondary library has been well-received! In addition to the library sofa and arm chairs, we now have additional soft seat chairs that provide more space for students to read in comfort. 

Get Rewarded for Reading award 2024-2025

Well done to Beane house who won the Get Rewarded for Reading award 2024-2025! The trophy will be presented in the end of year assemblies.

Old London Road parking permits

The Old London Road car park is an ideal site for dropping and collecting students. It is only an 11 minute walk from the school, and parking there significantly reduces congestion on Mangrove Road. Old London Road is also far more accessible than Mangrove Road, making it better for those parents that need to drive.

For younger students that need escorting to school East Herts District Council operate a scheme whereby you can extend the 30 mins free parking to an hour, giving parents plenty of time to walk up to school and then back to the car. If you would be interested in applying for one of these permits, please speak to Mrs Harding in the Larch office.

Please click here to read the Careers Opportunities Blog 

Parent Staff Association

Experience Fleetwood Mac by Candlelight!

Join us for a magical evening with Lumos Live and enjoy a Fleetwood Mac candlelight concert at the beautiful All Saints Church, Hertford on Saturday 28th June. Choose from two performance times: 7–8pm or 9–10pm.

By purchasing your tickets through our affiliate link, you’ll be supporting fundraising for the PSA, at no extra cost to you!

Get your tickets here.

Don’t miss this unforgettable night of music and atmosphere!

Larch Frozen Friday

The summer term welcomes the return of Frozen Fridays. After school each Friday, kind volunteers set up a pop up ice cream shop in the Larch playground.  All items are £1. This year, proceeds will go towards supporting the Larch Computing fundraising initiative.  Please support Frozen Fridays if you can, by purchasing an ice cream or filing a volunteer slot. https://volunteersignup.org/WT7KY

Here’s the list of dates and which year group will be running each sale:

  • 13th June – Year 5. (Full).
  • 20th June – Year 4. 1 volunteer needed.
  • 27th June – Year 3. (Full)
  • 4th July – Year 2. (Full)
  • 11th July – Year 1. (Full)
  • 17th July – (Thursday) Reception. 1 volunteer needed.

Thank you so much for your support — we can’t wait for a summer of Frozen Fridays!

Slice of Summer – Saturday 12th July, 12-4pm – Volunteers Needed!

We have filled 71 of 174 volunteer slots and need your help to fill more!

We’re looking for enthusiastic helpers from both phases of the school to support the Slice of Summer on Saturday 12th July (12–4pm). Whether you can spare an hour or more, we’d love your help running stalls, setting up, clearing away, or simply keeping the fun flowing. No experience needed, just a willingness to get involved and be part of our fantastic day.

To help with planning, choirs and dance groups from both phases will be performing at 1.15pm and 2.15pm.

Thank you for your support. volunteersignup.org/EQRA7

Inflatables offer

This year, we are offering £10 wristbands that give the user unlimited use of the inflatables during the Slice of Summer.  We have a limited number of wristbands available.  To purchase, or find out more, please visit the PSA website.

Dates for your diary

A full calendar of events can be viewed on the school website.

  • Mon 16th June: Y10 exam period starts
  • Thurs 19th June: Y5 Barbican trip
  • Thurs 19th June: Herts clean air day
  • Fri 20th June: Author visit with John Patrick Green in the Larch
  • Mon 23rd June: Sixth form induction day
  • Mon 23rd June: Y12 History trip to Berlin
  • Fri 27th June: District Athletics
  • Fri 27th June: Foreign Language Friday Food Fiesta
  • Wed 2nd July:  Author visit with Stewart Foster in the secondary library
  • Sun 6th July: Saffron Hall
  • Fri 11th July: Larch Summer Accessory Day
  • Sat 12th July: Slice of Summer

Wishing you all the best for the week ahead

Mrs Rachel Kirk and Mr Michael Moss (Co-headteachers)

Newsletter 15

16th May 2025David Ayres

Friday 16th May

Co-headteachers’ welcome

As the sunshine finally arrives, so too does the excitement and energy of exam season across our all-through school. From Key Stage 2 assessments to GCSEs, A-Levels, and vocational qualifications, students at every stage are working with determination, resilience and pride.

It is also heartening to see the strength of relationships between staff and students during this time. From revision breakfasts to one-to-one sessions and focused lessons, the dedication and care of our staff shine through. These moments reflect the shared commitment to helping each student achieve their very best.

This period marks not only the culmination of academic effort but also a time of celebration. Our GCSE and A-Level students began their formal exams following special leavers’ assemblies, speeches, and awards, recognising their achievements and contributions during their time at Simon Balle. These memorable occasions were captured in group photos, offering a snapshot of the journeys they’ve taken with us.

Year 11 marked the occasion with a celebratory trip to Ninja Warrior and tenpin bowling — a well-deserved reward for their hard work. Meanwhile, Year 13 celebrated in spectacular style, donning film and TV-themed costumes for their fancy dress day, followed by a silent disco. The creativity on display was exceptional , even our staff got into the spirit with costumes of their own. I even climbed into the loft and found an astronaut costume!

Our younger students in Year 6, who have shown great maturity throughout their SATs, are also looking forward to their own celebration with a residential trip to Sheringham, where they will no doubt make lasting memories, strengthen friendships, and develop their independence as they prepare to enter the next phase of their education. Adding to the excitement, on 16th May they were treated to the fantastic Wonderstruck rocket show — an inspiring and energetic display that brought science to life and left students wide-eyed with enthusiasm.

At Simon Balle, we are immensely proud of all our students as they prepare for their next steps, whether that be the transition to our secondary phase, further study in our Sixth Form or college, or beyond. This is a time to reflect, to celebrate, and to look ahead with optimism. We wish all our students the very best during this exam season and in the exciting chapters that lie ahead.

This week, we’ve also had the privilege of observing our Early Career Teachers (ECTs) in action across all key stages, from Key Stage 1 through to Key Stage 5. At Simon Balle, we are deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of teachers, ensuring that the quality of teaching across our all-through school remains exceptional. Each ECT is supported by a dedicated and experienced mentor, meeting weekly to reflect, guide and refine practice. This mentoring is complemented by a comprehensive programme of teaching and learning focus events. It has been a real pleasure to visit lessons and witness the thoughtful planning, strong subject knowledge, purposeful vocabulary, and skilful scaffolding in place. Even more inspiring is speaking to students about their learning, aspirations, and the impact their teachers are having. Teaching is a profession rooted in continual growth and reflection, and it is wonderful to see our new teachers already excelling in their journey. With outstanding facilities, including our new sports hall and modern languages block, we remain committed to providing the very best learning environment, powered by excellent teaching.

This same commitment to high standards and community voice is reflected in other areas of school life. We are pleased to share that Accent has been successful in retaining the catering contract, following a highly competitive process involving eight strong bidders. Over the coming months, they will be investing more than £100,000 into the catering service to enhance the quality and variety of food, improve dining environments, and refine the overall service experience. To ensure this investment reflects the needs and preferences of our community, surveys will be sent to parents, carers, and students to gather feedback on what is working well and what could be improved. We encourage everyone to take part, as these insights will play a key role in shaping the future of our catering provision. This survey also marks the start of a broader programme of engagement with students and families throughout the lifetime of the contract, and we look forward to working closely together to deliver a service that truly meets expectations.

We are always looking for ways to improve how we communicate and support our community. Recent additions to our school website include new pages on artificial intelligence, created for both students and parents/carers, complete with informative videos to foster curiosity and understanding. We’ve also launched a dedicated wellbeing and mental health section, offering practical resources and support. We hope these additions are not only informative but also reflect our continued commitment to a school community rooted in care, innovation, and ambition.

Exciting Times in PE – Our New Sports Hall is Open!

We are thrilled to announce that our brand-new sports hall is now open and already buzzing with activity! It’s been fantastic to see a wide range of extra-curricular clubs making full use of the impressive new facility, offering our students even more opportunities to get active and try something new. Here is the link to the Sporting extra curricular timetable for this term: https://www.simonballe.herts.sch.uk/sport/secondary-sport/

During the week beginning 12th May, all secondary students will take part in taster sessions during their PE lessons. These sessions will give students the chance to explore new sports and enjoy the fantastic space and equipment the new hall provides.

The excitement continues in the week beginning 19th May, when our Larch students will take centre stage for their primary inter-house competition. All children will get the chance to experience and compete in a variety of fun, inclusive events using the brand-new facility. with the use of our new adjustable basketball hoops; perfect for all age groups and ability levels.

Looking ahead to the week beginning 19th June, we’re launching the secondary inter-house basketball competition. This event will showcase our students’ skills and house spirit in the lead up to sports day.

It’s an exciting time for PE at Simon Balle, and we can’t wait to see our students continue to thrive in their new sporting home!

County League Athletics

As the summer term began we started our annual county league athletics competition. Round 1 took place at Wodson Park athletics track and we had over 70 students representing the school from years 7-10. This event also included a few Simon Balle records being broken in the 100m and 200m.

The students have demonstrated fantastic resilience and commitment to the competition so far. This has helped each age group maintain an excellent position in the table against all other schools in the county; with the yr 7&8 girls in 10th place, the yr 7&8 boys in 1st place, the yr 9&10 girls in 7th place, and yr 9&10 boys in 8th place. All with a great chance of making it through into the final.

We wish all athletes the best of luck for our next rounds taking place on Monday 19th May, Tuesday 3rd June, and Wednesday 11th June.

Walk to School Week 19th – 23rd May 2025

We are excited to be taking part in Walk to School Week this May.

We all know the health benefits of walking so please help us this week to reduce congestion by supporting children in being more active and help reduce lower carbon emissions during this Walk to School Week.

We would like to encourage all our pupils to try and walk, cycle or scoot to school during this week. If it’s not possible to walk all the way, then it would be great if you could park 10 minutes away from school and walk or scoot the last part of your journey.

Each primary class will have a poster featuring a map of Hertfordshire and aim take a ‘virtual’ walk around Hertfordshire. Every time a pupil travels sustainably, a dot can be coloured in.

Following on from Walk to School Week, we will be supporting Clean Air Day on Thursday 19th June 2025, more information closer to the date.

This #WakeUpWednesday safety-on-the-road guide contains some excellent advice and reminders for students, and is particularly relevant to the those younger ones getting to ready to start walking on their own.

Old London Road parking permits

The Old London Road car park is an ideal site for dropping and collecting students. It is only an 11 minute walk from the school, and parking there significantly reduces congestion on Mangrove Road. Old London Road is also far more accessible than Mangrove Road, making it better for those parents that need to drive.

For younger students that need escorting to school East Herts District Council operate a scheme whereby you can extend the 30 mins free parking to an hour, giving parents plenty of time to walk up to school and then back to the car. If you would be interested in applying for one of these permits, please speak to Mrs Harding in the Larch office.

Please click here to read our latest Careers Opportunities Blog, which includes: 

  • Apprenticeship support for parents/ carers
  • Marine Biology/Conservation virtual work experience
  • AI Meets Banking Brilliance – Explore Your Future with Lloyds Banking Group

Larch Open Classrooms

As we near the end of the academic year, we would like to invite children to show their parents and carers their books from this year and their new classroom for September 2025. Specific dates and timings for this opportunity will be: 

  • Phase 1 & 2 (EYFS, Year 1, Year 2, Year 3 and Year 4): Wednesday 9th July 3.20pm – 4.15pm.
  • Phase 3 (Year 5 and Year 6): Wednesday 16th July 3.20pm – 4.15pm.

Year 11 “Celebration day”

The Year 11’s celebrated their time here at Simon Balle last Friday with a fantastic celebration day. It began with an emotional and memorable award assembly where the students showed genuine joy for others and celebrated each individual award with cheers and applause, the support in the room was electric and so touching. The year 11’s then received their hoodies and yearbooks and postcards with messages of support from staff whilst signing each other’s shirts. A few students then went off to Stevenage for a competitive but friendly game of bowling and the rest to Chelmsford to prove themselves in Ninja Warrior. The afternoon was such fun and full of smiles and laughter. It was such a special day and fond memories were both recollected and made. 

Year 11 are a fantastic group of young people, who I wish the best of luck to over the coming weeks. Now is the time to show everyone what I know you can all do. 

Go smash it Year 11

Miss J Green

The UKMT Junior Maths Challenge.

On Thursday 1st of May, we had our largest entry into The UKMT Junior Maths Challenge to date, with over 330 students from year 7 and 8 taking part.  

This isn’t the arithmetic or algebra you remember from school, but a whole step up in mathematical and critical thinking.  With a big smile on their face, students reported that it was the hardest challenge they had ever faced.  Watching them take part made us very proud.  Especially the resilience shown, with most working right up to the end determined to work out just one more answer.  

Fancy a go?   

Science

This week, Year 10 students had the opportunity to take part in the National Scientific Thinking Challenge. Designed by university academics, this challenge offers an excellent way to test and encourage deep thinking skills within STEM-related contexts. 

We are now awaiting the results and certificates will be awarded to the top-performing students in recognition of their outstanding achievement. 

We look forward to celebrating their success once the outcomes are released.

Y13 Chemistry

Our Year 13 Chemistry students recently visited the University of Hertfordshire to attend talks on a range of analytical techniques, including NMR, ICP-OES, Mass Spectrometry, Gas Chromatography, and Infrared Spectroscopy. Students also had the opportunity to bring along their own synthesised Aspirin samples for analysis. It was an excellent day and a fantastic opportunity to deepen their understanding and experience real-world applications of their studies. A big thank you to the university for hosting us and providing such an inspiring experience.

Library News

Y9 timetable change

From Monday 2nd June Y9 will be starting their GCSE courses. The timetable has been rewritten to allow the students to have three hours per week in their chosen subjects: this head start on their GCSE courses helps to refocus them in the summer term and adds valuable time to learn new content and skills. Students should check their Arbor timetables carefully as they are likely to have lessons on completely different days.

SEND

If you would like to speak to a member of the SEND team, please schedule a virtual appointment of up to 15 minutes by using the following link: Virtual SEND Team Appointments

The Hertfordshire SEND Local Offer provides information about services and support that are available within Hertfordshire.

Please find attached the latest DSPL3 newsletter for parents and carers DSPL3 Newsletter for Parents – Summer 1

Wellbeing & Mental Health @ Simon Balle All-through school

https://www.simonballe.herts.sch.uk/wellbeing-and-mental-health/

Welcome to our wellbeing area where we aim to provide our school community up to date information about mental health support and wellbeing resources. Our Mental Health School lead is Mr Pooley who can be contacted on pooleyj@simonballe.herts.sch.uk     

Next week we are planning a series of activities across the school to allow our students to connect and be active. We will also be using our wellbeing platform, bounce together, to gain an insight through surveys into students wellbeing. 

A message from The Herts Haven Café: 

The Herts Haven Cafe is a free drop-in space where young people (10-18 years old) can come for support and guidance with their emotional well-being. No referral is needed; our trained staff provide a safe, welcoming, and non-judgemental environment for young people to share their concerns and feel listened to.

Alongside being a sensory-friendly, playful, and creative space, we offer practical help for a diverse range of needs. If we feel that a young person may benefit from further support, we are well-equipped to signpost other services that could meet their requirements.

You can find us at Herts Haven Cafe in The Wellbeing Centre, The Warehouse, 14 New Road, Ware, Hertfordshire, SG12 7BS. 

We are currently open every Wednesday, 3.30 pm – 6.30 pm, so it is ideal for an after-school visit. Parents/guardians are welcome to accompany their child during the session if they wish to.

Bullseye for Year 12! 

Last week we launched our exciting new darts themed project supported by Harrows Darts with a thrilling Year 12 Darts Competition! The sports hall turned into an arena of focus, accuracy, and friendly rivalry as students took aim for glory. From bullseyes to bounce-outs, it was fantastic to see such enthusiasm, teamwork, and sporting spirit on display.

This is just the start of our darts journey – Harrows will be supporting us with equipment and expertise as we grow this exciting new sport in school. Whether it’s at lunchtime or after school, we’re aiming high!

Huge thanks to Harrows for backing this brilliant initiative and well done to all the competitors – the future of school darts starts here! 

Parent Staff Association

Experience Fleetwood Mac by Candlelight!

Join us for a magical evening with Lumos Live and enjoy a Fleetwood Mac candlelight concert at the beautiful All Saints Church, Hertford on Saturday 28th June. Choose from two performance times: 7–8pm or 9–10pm.

By purchasing your tickets through our affiliate link, you’ll be supporting fundraising for the PSA, at no extra cost to you!

Get your tickets here.

Don’t miss this unforgettable night of music and atmosphere!

Larch Frozen Friday

We’re excited to announce that Frozen Fridays will be returning to Larch soon. To make sure the sales can go ahead each week, we’ll need 4 volunteers each Friday.  We would love to be able to offer Frozen Friday to the children that attend Explorers too.  Are you available at 4.30pm on Fridays? Please sign up below!

While the sale is open to all of Larch, we kindly ask that families help out when it’s their year group’s turn to run the sale. Of course, if you’re happy to volunteer for other year groups as well, that would be wonderful too!

Here’s the list of dates and which year group will be running each sale:

https://volunteersignup.org/WT7KY

  • 6th June – Year 6. 3 volunteers needed
  • 13th June – Year 5. 3 volunteers needed.
  • 20th June – Year 4. 4 volunteers needed.
  • 27th June – Year 3 (full)
  • 4th July – Year 2. 3 volunteers needed.
  • 11th July – Year 1. 2 volunteers needed.
  • 18th July – Reception @ 12pm, last day of school year. 4 volunteers needed.

Thank you so much for your support — we can’t wait for a summer of Frozen Fridays!

Slice of Summer – Saturday 12th July, 12-4pm – Volunteers Needed!

Calling all Larch families. We need just 4 volunteers per year group to run games this year. Can you help? Our VolunteerSignUp link is now open!

  • Reception Game, Hook-a-duck – (FULL)
  • Year 1 Game, Captain Hook’s Rings – (1 of 3 filled)
  • Year 2 Game, Buried Treasure – (2 of 3 filled)
  • Year 3 Game, Teddy Tombola – (FULL)
  • Year 4 Game, Splat-the-rat – (1 of 4 filled)
  • Year 5 Game, Human Fruit Machine (1 of 4 filled)
  • Year 6 Game, Nerf Fruit Splat (0 of 4 filled)

Secondary families, we need you too! Can you help run the bar, candy floss, admissions desk?

Secondary students, can you help to serve ice cream or run the Boba Bar or inflatable archery?

Sign up to a volunteer slot BEFORE Friday 2nd May to benefit from FREE entry and FREE tokens to redeem anywhere at the fair, on PSA operated areas. 1 token per volunteer, per slot.

This offer is open to all staff, parents, carers and students of the all-through community.

Inflatables offer

This year, we are offering £10 wristbands that give the user unlimited use of the inflatables during the Slice of Summer.  We have a limited number of wristbands available.  To purchase, or find out more, please visit the PSA website.

Hertford Children’s Choir

Hertford Children’s Choir is a choir led by Rachel and Sam Chaplin for anyone aged 8-13* who loves singing and wants to develop their musicianship. Rehearsals are on Fridays 5.30-6.45pm at St Andrew’s Church Hertford and there are termly performances.

www.tinyurl.com/hertfordchildrenschoir

Dates for your diary

A full calendar of events can be viewed on the school website.

  • Mon 19th May: Walk to School Week
  • Mon 19th May: Y6 Sheringham Information eve (6pm)
  • Mon 2nd June: Y5 BMX day
  • Mon 2nd June: Y8 Colchester Zoo trip
  • Mon 2nd June: Y9 timetable changes
  • Thurs 5th June: Reception trip to Hertfordshire Zoo
  • Mon 9th June: Y12 threshold exams

Wishing you all the best for the week ahead

Mrs Rachel Kirk and Mr Michael Moss (Co-headteachers)

 

Newsletter 14

2nd May 2025David Ayres

Friday 2nd May

Co-headteachers’ welcome

Welcome back to the summer term at Simon Balle All-Through School. We hope you all had a restful, sunny and enjoyable break. Whether your child is continuing their journey with us in Reception, preparing for their final steps in Sixth Form, or any year in between, we are excited to begin this new term together. As ever, a new term brings fresh opportunities, renewed energy, and the chance to continue building on the brilliant progress we’ve made so far this year, academically and holistically. And what a first fortnight we have had!

The Elm Sports Centre at Simon Balle All-through School 

We are thrilled to announce the official opening of our brand-new sports hall—a milestone that has been decades in the making! This incredible facility reflects the ambition, patience, and dedication of our entire school community. 

At our official opening ceremony for Simon Balle on Wednesday, we extended heartfelt thanks to everyone involved: from the leadership of our CFO Haydn Walsh to our site and finance teams, our Edutech and marketing staff, our professional partners – architects and builders – and of course our dedicated staff and wonderful students. More than just a building, this space represents our belief in young people and our commitment to investing in their future: here, we are truly creating tomorrow’s citizens today. 

Our ribbon-cutting ceremony was both moving and motivating as excited students gathered both outside our new building and in classrooms across the all-through school – with a live-stream ensuring that 1600 students and 200 staff could take part. The atmosphere was magical as everyone joined, both for the speeches and for the symbolic moment of the opening itself. As students saw the sports hall itself for the very first time, staff were struck by their incredible awe and wonder. 

At the time of writing we cannot wait to share this space with you all – parents/carers, interested hirers, people of Hertford and more – at our community open evening. Exciting times ahead for certain! 

Please do keep an eye our social media channels for updates and information a-plenty, as well the dedicated pages on our Simon Balle website. 

However, for now, we’d like to leave you with a summary of speeches made in our opening ceremony by our wonderful PE leaders, Miss Newman and Mrs Riddle, who, together with their teams, have such an inspirational vision for the Elm Sports Centre and our students across the all-through at Simon Balle. 

Speaking as Head of PE- this space is more than just a new building. This is an exciting opportunity to enhance the school’s PE curriculum, develop our extra-curricular provision, raise the standard of sports at Simon Balle as well as providing the opportunity for student personal growth. The Elm Sports Centre will be a place where students will try new sports, build confidence, and maybe discover a talent or passion they didn’t even know they had. Whether it’s handball, badminton, basketball, or something completely new – this sports hall opens up so many more opportunities for everyone. We want all our students to enjoy being active, to challenge themselves, and to have fun doing it. We also want to raise the profile of sport – to push performance, build strong teams and individuals, and show the district, county and national leagues what Simon Balle can do in sport. My vision is that sport and physical activity will be the heartbeat of Simon Balle. From lessons to clubs to fixtures, this sports hall will be buzzing with energy, ambition, and team spirit. I can not wait to see what we can achieve. 

This space is for all of you, whether you’re here to try something new, make new friends, or simply enjoy moving your body. We’ve designed it to be a place where everyone feels included, where every child can thrive no matter their ability or background. Sport teaches us so many important lessons, teamwork, perseverance, and the joy of achieving something together. We hope that this sports hall will inspire you to keep pushing your limits, supporting each other, and having fun. In the Larch we also believe the Elm Sports Centre will be a place for inspiration. Perhaps one day, a future Olympian will say it all began right here in our sports hall. Or maybe, more quietly, but just as powerfully, one of you will discover the joy of being part of a team, the thrill of doing something you never thought you could do, or the quiet pride in setting a goal and reaching it. Let’s celebrate this wonderful new chapter, and remember, this is your space. Make it your own and enjoy every moment!

A spotlight on learning

It seems important to begin any new term with a simple focus on the joy of learning in the classroom. After all, it is this way that our 1600 students spend 5 hours a day, 25 hours a week. It is always hard as a parent/carer to imagine just how this looks, so we will try to provide a window into just a few examples here … 

  • Reception are enjoying their important outdoor learning in this wonderful weather. At the time of my visit, the trim trail was providing the perfect vehicle for children to practise and perfect their gross motor skills – from balancing to strengthening their core muscles on the monkey bars. We know that refined gross motor skills lead to controlled fine motor skills so all of this feeds into writing and drawing back in the classroom, as well as the great fun being had!
  • In Year 2, the quality of art work, with a focus on Henri Rousseau’s tiger, is off the scale! With no two pieces the same, creativity and expression in abundance and developed skills shown in sketching and work with colour, Year 2 are rightly proud of their outcomes. 
  • Year 4 are rapidly approaching their statutory multiplication tables check. When I visited the ethos of high expectations and pride from the students was tangible. The data will, we have no doubt, speak for itself as each child’s progress is just so evident. Talking to our mathematics colleagues across the all-through, there is no underestimating the importance of rapid recall for number facts – our students are building a firm foundation from which they can spring forward. Thank you for your continued parental support, not just in Year 4 but in year groups across the Larch, with TTRS, numbots, arithmetic practice and more!
  • Whilst Year 6 are, of course, very busy preparing for their important SATs, at the time of my visit I was greeted with energy and enthusiasm for their computing curriculum where they are currently learning how to code using micro:bits. The students’ technical proficiency is impressive, and we are delighted that the breadth and enjoyment of our curriculum continues – it is, quite deliberately, never narrowed. 
  • I visited Year 8 lessons, ready with my ‘good news’ notes to celebrate both dedication to revision – including within PRE for their Hinduism Dharma unit – and ongoing ambition in reading within Accelerated Reader. I was struck by the way that all students were taking such responsibility for their learning, developing metacognitive skills and using time effectively and productively.
  • It is always a privilege to visit students of all ages within lessons within our art rotation. Whether in textiles, photography, art or Design Technology, what is striking is the calm ethos where each individual is pleased to share their learning journey. During this visit, a number of Year 12 students took their time to take me through their thinking, explaining their vision and plans for current projects with excitement. I am always in awe of their creativity and dedication. 
  • And finally, Year 11 are, of course, at the beginning of their important public exams. When I visited them in science, they were having great fun with bingo – recalling important vocabulary linked to electrical circuits, checking on definitions, showing discipline in their studies yet in an active and engaging way. We wish all of our students the very best as they navigate this exam season – we continue to be here to support them all, every step of the way.

SEND

If you would like to speak to a member of the SEND team, please schedule a virtual appointment of up to 15 minutes by using the following link: Virtual SEND Team Appointments

The Hertfordshire SEND Local Offer provides information about services and support that are available within Hertfordshire.

Simon Balle’s Got Talent 2025

Over 40 students from the Secondary phase took part in our second ever talent show. We had the pleasure of seeing dance, drama, different musical acts and comedy. It was a pleasure and a joy to see students stepping out of their comfort zones and performing. It took much deliberation from our judges to decide on who would win!

  • 1st place – The Y9 singing trio – Orla, Erin and Lola
  • 2nd place – Y12 rock band – Lucy, Luca, Ben, Lewis and Merry
  • 3rd place – Y10 drama – Martina, Sylvie, Elizabeth and Aidan
  • Prize for courage and originality – Kieran (Y9, comedy) and Lottie (Y9 singer/pianist)
  • Audience vote – Y9 rock band ‘The Fishmongers’ – Jude, Alfie, Tymon, Josh and Lachlan

Congratulations to all of the winners and for all of the entrants!

Please click here for our latest Careers Opportunities blog

Science

The Science department is pleased to announce that Bors from Y11 has been selected as a finalist in the prestigious Big Bang Competition for his exceptional project on Bloom AI. We are extremely proud of his achievement and we wish him every success in the upcoming finals.

Walk to School Week 19th – 23rd May 2025

We are excited to be taking part in Walk to School Week this May.

We all know the health benefits of walking so please help us this week to reduce congestion by supporting children in being more active and help reduce lower carbon emissions during this Walk to School Week.

We would like to encourage all our pupils to try and walk, cycle or scoot to school during this week. If it’s not possible to walk all the way, then it would be great if you could park 10 minutes away from school and walk or scoot the last part of your journey.

Each class will have a poster of featuring a map of Hertfordshire and aim take a‘virtual’ walk around Hertfordshire. Every time a pupil travels sustainably, adot can be coloured in.

Following on from Walk to School Week, we will be supporting Clean Air Day on Thursday 19th June 2025, more information closer to the date.

This #WakeUpWednesday safety-on-the-road guide contains some excellent advice and reminders for students, and is particularly relevant to the those younger ones getting to ready to start walking on their own.

Car Park and entrance to the school

With the work on the sports hall and car park now complete, we will be reinstating the barriers at the entrance to the school site. As with the majority of schools in the country, we have restricted vehicle access to our car park in order to keep students safe.

The barriers will close at 0810 and remain closed until 1545. Parents are welcome to drive through and drop students before 0810, but please remember that this is on a no-waiting basis. Between 0810 and 1545 only those with special access passes will be permitted to enter the car park.

Unless a special access pass has been granted, students should not be driven to or from the school site. To avoid accidents, congestion and inconvenience to our neighbours, we ask that parents do not drop students outside the gates, on Mangrove Road itself or in neighbouring streets. The Old London Road car park beside the fire station is an 11 minute walk and is a far more appropriate location for dropping and collecting.

If you are visiting the school for any reason, please note that the secondary reception is moving to the sports hall.

Parent Staff Association

Larch Frozen Friday

We’re excited to announce that Frozen Fridays will be returning to Larch soon. To make sure the sales can go ahead each week, we’ll need 4 volunteers each Friday.  While the sale is open to all of Larch, we kindly ask that families help out when it’s their year group’s turn to run the sale. Of course, if you’re happy to volunteer for other year groups as well, that would be wonderful too!  Here’s the list of dates and which year group will be running each sale:

https://volunteersignup.org/WT7KY

  • 6th June – Year 6
  • 13th June – Year 5
  • 20th June – Year 4
  • 27th June – Year 3
  • 4th July – Year 2
  • 11th July – Year 1
  • 18th July – Reception @ 12pm, last day of school year

Thank you so much for your support — we can’t wait for a summer of Frozen Fridays!

Slice of Summer – Saturday 12th July, 12-4pm – Volunteers Needed!

Calling all Larch families. We need just 4 volunteers per year group to run games this year. Can you help? Our VolunteerSignUp link is now open!

  • Reception Game, Hook-a-duck – (FULL)
  • Year 1 Game, Captain Hook’s Rings – (1 of 3 filled)
  • Year 2 Game, Buried Treasure – (2 of 3 filled)
  • Year 3 Game, Teddy Tombola – (FULL)
  • Year 4 Game, Splat-the-rat – (1 of 4 filled)
  • Year 5 Game, Human Fruit Machine (1 of 4 filled)
  • Year 6 Game, Nerf Fruit Splat (0 of 4 filled)

Secondary families, we need you too! Can you help run the bar, candy floss, admissions desk?

Secondary students, can you help to serve ice cream or run the Boba Bar or inflatable archery?

Sign up to a volunteer slot BEFORE Friday 2nd May to benefit from FREE entry and FREE tokens to redeem anywhere at the fair, on PSA operated areas. 1 token per volunteer, per slot.

This offer is open to all staff, parents, carers and students of the all-through community.

Inflatables offer

This year, we are offering £10 wristbands that give the user unlimited use of the inflatables during the Slice of Summer.  We have a limited number of wristbands available.  To purchase, or find out more, please visit the PSA website.

Dates for your diary

A full calendar of events can be viewed on the school website.

  • Mon 5th May: Bank Holiday
  • Tues 6th May: Y8 assessments start
  • Wed 7th May: Public exams start
  • Mon 19th May: Walk to School Week
  • Mon 2nd June: Y5 BMX day
  • Thurs 5th June: Reception trip to Hertfordshire Zoo

Wishing you all the best for the week ahead

Mrs Rachel Kirk and Mr Michael Moss (Co-headteachers)

Career Opportunities 29

28th April 2025Ciaran Prendergast

Apprenticeship support – Parents/ Carers:

Is your child considering an apprenticeship as their next step? Choices magazine is the ultimate parent and carer guide to apprenticeships and technical education! It is completely free of charge – find this month’s edition here: amapps.uk/parent-magazine and sign up to receive it each month, direct to your inbox: amapps.uk/choices

 

Marine Biology/Conservation: 

From 1st–3rd July 2025 (10:00–14:30 each day), Speakers for Schools is hosting a 3-day virtual work experience in collaboration with the inspiring organisations Incredible Oceans and Crustacean Compassion.

This is a rare and valuable experience that will give students meaningful insight into the world of marine conservation and the diverse career paths available in the sector. It’s so unusual to find quality marine work experience so I am so excited with this opportunity.

Throughout the programme, students will:

  • Meet and learn from professionals working in marine biology and environmental advocacy
  • Discover a range of career opportunities within the marine and conservation fields
  • Collaborate with peers across the UK on an engaging live project
  • Gain a deeper understanding of ocean ecosystems, species welfare, and sustainable practices

About the Organisations:
Incredible Oceans makes marine science engaging and accessible, aiming to inspire respect and responsibility for our oceans through science, art, and storytelling.
Crustacean Compassion advocates for the humane treatment of decapod crustaceans, promoting ethical practices through education, policy, and industry engagement.

We believe this opportunity will especially benefit students exploring science, environmental studies, geography, or animal care, and those passionate about creating a more sustainable future. Since it’s suitable for 14-19 year olds, it could be enriching as an opportunity for Year 10 for work experience or for older students completing animal management or biology courses at college – or even passionate geography students interested in careers in stewardship.

The employers are also very engaging and inspirational – as well as being dedicated to helping young people and recruit their future workforce.

The opportunity is currently live and there is a lot of interest. We are not running group bookings for this opportunity but there are numerous spaces available.

Learn more and apply here:
https://www.speakersforschools.org/results/?opp=1A80199C-08DD-427D-9C6A-08DD67976A58

 

AI Meets Banking Brilliance – Explore Your Future with Lloyds Banking Group

Tuesday, 6th May 2025, 5:00pm – 6:00pm

Are you curious about where a future in finance could take you – and how artificial intelligence is reshaping the industry?

Join us for an exclusive virtual event with Lloyds Banking Group – one of the UK’s leading financial institutions with a proud history, bold digital ambitions, and a commitment to helping Britain prosper. Whether you’re in school, college, or just starting to consider your career options, this is your chance to discover exciting opportunities at the intersection of finance and technology.

 Event Details:
Event: Lloyds Banking Group Careers Live: Gen AI
Date: Tuesday, 6th May
Time: 5:00pm – 6:00pm
Location: Online (tune in from anywhere!)
Who Can Attend? All students in school or college

Why Attend:
Finance today is about much more than money management – it’s about innovation, people, and purpose. In this one-hour session, you’ll gain insights into:

  • How AI and large language models (LLMs) are driving change within Lloyds Banking Group

  • The variety of early careers programmes, apprenticeships, and training pathways they offer

  • Real-life stories from current apprentices and professionals who are shaping the future of finance

  • The skills and mindset LBG looks for in the next generation of talent

About Lloyds Banking Group:
With over 60,000 colleagues and 30 million customers across the UK, Lloyds Banking Group is at the heart of the UK economy. From high street banking to cutting-edge digital innovation, they offer careers that matter, where you can make a real impact, right from the start.

So, if you’re intrigued by the blend of technology and finance, or simply want to explore future-fit careers in a trusted, progressive company – this is the event to attend.

 Register Now:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LBG-Gen-AI

Newsletter 13

4th April 2025David Ayres

Friday 4th April

Co-headteachers’ welcome

As we reach the end of the spring term, the sunshine and warmer days are a welcome sign of the season ahead. It has been a dynamic and enriching term across our all-through school, filled with learning, adventure, and memorable experiences. From the excitement of the Year 5/6 sports hall finals to the incredible talent on display at Big Band Evening, from UCAS Evening in Year 12 to Year 3’s hands-on visit to Pizza Express, and from intense chess tournaments to the GCSE geography field trip to Walton-on-the-Naze, there has been no shortage of opportunities for our students to shine. Alongside these, a multitude of consultation evenings have provided invaluable moments for reflection and growth. It has truly been a term to celebrate and enjoy!

Among the many highlights, I was fortunate to attend the Model United Nations at Haileybury College, where our Sixth Form students showcased their diplomacy, critical thinking and public speaking skills on a global stage. In international politics, the ability to listen, compromise, and show compassion is essential for fostering meaningful dialogue and resolving global challenges, skills our students demonstrated with confidence and maturity. Engaging in thoughtful debates on pressing global issues, they impressed with their ability to collaborate, negotiate, and present well-reasoned arguments. This prestigious event allowed them to challenge themselves, broaden their perspectives, and gain invaluable experience in leadership and diplomacy. We are immensely proud of their enthusiasm, commitment, and the confidence they displayed in representing our school. Well done to all involved!

At school level, our Year 12 students took part in the selection process for our school presidents, demonstrating their leadership qualities in an inspiring and thoughtful way. As part of this, they were asked to present an object that represented the values and ethos of our school. Their choices were both creative and deeply symbolic, ranging from a bouquet, a controller to a friendship bracelet, a printer, and even a jigsaw piece, each carrying a meaningful message. This was followed by interviews, where their confidence, depth of insight, and leadership skills truly shone, a proud moment for all involved.

As we look ahead, our Year 6, Year 11, and Year 13 students are preparing for their public exams, an important milestone in their academic journey. These assessments are not just a measure of knowledge but also a test of independence, motivation, and self-discipline. While our staff provide expert guidance, challenge, and support, success ultimately rests in each student’s hands. Their dedication, responsibility, and willingness to engage in revision sessions and independent study will be key. With families playing a vital role in creating a supportive environment, this is a time for students to take ownership of their future, drawing on the resilience and wisdom they have developed throughout their school years.

Finally, we want to take a moment to thank our students, staff, and families for their dedication and hard work throughout this busy and rewarding term. The energy, enthusiasm, and commitment shown across all year groups have been truly inspiring, and it has been wonderful to see our school community thrive in so many different areas. As well as this, excitement builds for the summer term, which promises new opportunities and experiences, and perhaps most significantly, the grand opening of our state-of-the-art, multi-million pound sports centre. If you’re intending to join us for the community event (4-6pm, Thursday 1st May), please let us know by completing this short Google Form. You can support our ongoing  fundraising by participating in the Buy a Brick campaign, or by contributing to our charity giving page.

We hope that the upcoming break provides everyone with a well-deserved opportunity to rest, recharge, and spend time with loved ones. Whether revising for exams, pursuing personal interests, or simply enjoying the longer days, we encourage all our students to find a balance between productivity and relaxation. Wishing you all a happy, restful, and enjoyable Easter break!

Changes to the front of the school, and a reminder about punctuality

As we near the completion of the building work on the sports centre we wanted to highlight some important information relating to both the opening of the building, and some changes that will occur as a result.

  • The main school reception will be moving to the sports centre. Visitors to the site will enter here, rather than buzzing in at the canteen gate and walking through the playground.
  • The car park barriers will be back in action: they will close at 0810 and open again at 1545. After 0810 students should be dropped elsewhere and should walk up to the school.
  • The road by the swimming pool will continue to be a one-way route from the car park to the staff-only car park and back out onto Mangrove Road
  • Students must be on site by 0835. At this time the pedestrian gates and the rear gates will be locked. Students arriving after 0835 must enter through the new reception area, where they will be recorded as arriving late
  • If a student is late through no fault of their own their parent/carer should email the office to absolve them of responsibility

Y10 Geography field trip

The sun was shining, the ranging poles and clipboards were packed, ready for the annual GCSE Geography field trip to Walton-on-the-Naze! Last week, 90 GCSE geography students completed their compulsory fieldwork which they will be examined on in their final summer exams. The students completed coastal fieldwork techniques such as beach profiles, groyne surveys and field sketches to assess whether or not the coastal management is successful in preventing coastal erosion. After being refuelled by lunch, the geographers embarked on their urban fieldwork looking at how the quality of life varies around Walton-on-the-Naze. The students completed a traffic count and an environmental quality survey at 10 different sites so that they can compare their results back at school. All the students worked incredibly hard, speaking like geographers and demonstrating geography in action!

Football

This year has been an outstanding one for football across all year groups, with every team showing great commitment, teamwork, and sportsmanship throughout the season. We’re incredibly proud of the progress and achievements made across the board – well done to all players and coaches involved!

Special Congratulations to the Year 5/6, Year 8 and Year 11!

Our Year 5/6 team has done incredibly well to reach the Hope Cup Final – a fantastic achievement that reflects their hard work and passion for the game. We can’t wait to see them in action!

  • Thursday 24th April with a 4pm kick of time at Richard Hale

A big well done to our Year 8 team who have made it all the way to the County Plate Final! The details are as follows:

  • Thursday 24th April at 5:15pm, with the match taking place at Harvesters FC.

Not to be outdone, our Year 11 team has had an exceptional season, reaching two finals:

  • District Cup Final on Tuesday 29th April at 3:00pm at Hertford Town FC
  • County Plate Final on Wednesday 7th May kicking off at 7:30pm at Harpenden Town FC

Please come and support the teams if you can.

Music News!

Enjoy our latest news here from Incredible exam results, to videos of amazing events and much more!

Pizza Express trip

On Thursday, Robins class had an exciting visit to the Pizza Express kitchens. During this immersive learning opportunity, they explored the fundamental ingredients used in pizza making before getting hands-on with crafting their own pizzas.

A very big thank you to the Pizza Express Hertford team for providing such a wonderful experience, it was certainly a day to remember for Robins!

Model United Nations

Last week, twenty three Simon Balle students attended the Haileybury Model United Nations conference.  Below is Kayla’s account of the conference:

This weekend, I had the incredible opportunity to attend one of the largest Model United Nations conferences in the country, with about 900 participants.

I was assigned to represent the Maldives in the Human Rights II Committee. Each committee had a set of topics to research in depth and I chose to research freedom of speech in conflict zones.  After months of preparation and research, I developed a resolution proposing measures to protect journalists, artists, and scholars from targeted killings, which have increased in recent years. This process strengthened my ability to conduct independent research and draw well-supported conclusions.

The first day of MUN consisted of both informal and formal lobbying within our committees to gain signatories for our resolutions. This experience helped me develop negotiation skills, as I had to persuade delegates to support my resolution. On the second day, each delegation presented its policy statement, providing insight into their stance on the topics. We then moved into debating resolutions, where selected delegates presented their proposals. I delivered a two-minute speech in favor of a resolution, highlighting key areas that were well thought out and effectively addressed. This experience helped me develop my public speaking skills and boosted my confidence in articulating my thoughts and ideas.

Overall, this event was fantastic and I hope to participate in Haileybury MUN 2026.

Computing in the Larch

As the Larch has developed and grown, so has the Computing curriculum. We are lucky at Simon Balle to have access to a wide range of technology such as Chromebooks, iPads, and Beebots, kept up to date and in great condition with the support from our Edutech team. 

Through a range of activities, children develop their digital skills and understanding of technology,  exploring coding, programming and problem-solving in interactive ways. Alongside this, they take part in unplugged activities to deepen their understanding of key computing concepts without screens. They also learn about important topics such as how the school network works, all following the Teach Computing curriculum resources. These lessons help build confidence, creativity and critical thinking in the digital world. 

In addition to our Computing curriculum, the chromebooks are used widely throughout the Larch with children researching different topics, typing work in written lessons, practising their times tables on websites such as Times Tables Rockstar, filling in questionnaires or having a go at interactive quizzes. Every time they enter the digital world, we see them applying their Computing skills across the curriculum.

8R Visit to McMullen’s Brewery

On Thursday 27th March it was the turn for 8R to visit McMullen’s as part of our careers program. They were given a tour of the brewery from two of McMullen’s brewers who explained the brewing process as they went round. Starting with the dry area where the students could taste different malted barleys and smell the hops. They moved on to the laboratory and mill room where students learned more about the science that comes into brewing. In the ‘Brewhouse’ they saw the large stainless steel vessels used in the brewing, with explanations of the use of each and the effect on the flavours of the beer. The last stage is the area where the casks and kegs are returned, washed and filled for transportation to the McMullen Pubs.

The other half of the visit students have a presentation on the hospitality industry from the Training and Development Chefs. They learned about the vast range of opportunities in this sector and about some roles they may not have even thought about and how skills learned can be useful in life (such as cooking) as well as the portability of the skills to anywhere in the world. All the students were a credit to Simon Balle in their engagement and behaviour.

Blog

Please click here for our latest Careers Opportunities blog which has a range of opportunities for parents/carers Y11/12 and 13 students, including:

  • Choices Magazine for Parents/ Carers of children who are wishing to pursue an apprenticeship
  • Virtual work experience in law and accounting

SEND

If you would like to speak to a member of the SEND team, please schedule a virtual appointment of up to 15 minutes by using the following link: Virtual SEND Team Appointments

The DSPL3 (Delivering Specialist Provision Locally) parent newsletter is attached here: DSPL3 Newsletter for Parents – Spring 2.pdf

Details of additional support for neurodiversity can be found on the Local Offer using the following link. Neurodiversity Support 

‘Introduction to the SEND Local Offer website’ – Local Authority webinar

The Local Offer website lets parents, young people and professionals know what special educational needs and disabilities services are available in Hertfordshire, and who can access them. There is so much more than that, too.

A friendly face from the Local Offer team will take you through what’s on the website and how you can use it to find the right services and support.

www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/localoffer

Tuesday 29 April 8pm – 9pm Register to join this webinar

TCS Mini Marathon

At the end of April Mr Joyce and Miss Davison will be taking on the iconic London Marathon. To celebrate and promote the marathon, TCS Mini Marathon in schools encourages thousands of children to run, jog, walk or wheel the 2 miles. We have signed up as a school and will be hosting our own mini marathon on Thursday 24th April across the All Through School.Year 8, 9 and 10 will be taking part outside of their normal PE lessons, therefore will need to attend school in their Simon Balle PE Kit. Year 5, 7 and 11 will be taking part during their PE lessons so will be expected to come into school in their school uniform and get changed into the Simon Balle PE kit during their PE lesson as normal. We would welcome your support with this by encouraging all students to take part with enthusiasm and excitement, it is a great opportunity to be active with friends and staff.

Y11 Drama GCSE Scripted Performance exam

The Year 11 Drama students did a fantastic job presenting their GCSE scripted exam performances on Tuesday 25th March. The visiting examiner and a 30 strong audience were treated to a mature, intense and powerful interpretation from the play “My Mother said I never should” as well as a comedic and ‘spiritual’ performance of Noel Coward’s “Blithe Spirit”.   A third performance of two contrasting extracts from Willy Russell’s “Blood brothers” encapsulated both a comedic, energetic and playful presentation of Mickey Johnstone and Edward Lyons age 7, followed by an intense confrontation 20 years later where the brothers’ connection comes to an abrupt end.

The students did so well and should be as proud of themselves as we are of them.

Miss Green & Mrs Rooke

Library News

National Reading Champions Quiz

On Monday 31st March, the following 8 students represented the school in the Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire regional heat of the National Reading Champions Quiz. They were competing against 18 other teams from schools across the county. They did a brilliant job and won the participation prize (a £25 book voucher to spend on books for the library). Well done team Simon Balle! 

  • Zoe – year 9 
  • Lucas – year 8 
  • Isabella – year 8 
  • Samuel – year 8 
  • David – year 7 
  • Alice – year 7 
  • Dominic – year 6 
  • Isabella – year 6

Rewards Trip

Well done to Dany, Aaron, Harrison, Santi, Noah, James, Archie, Renae, Seraphina, Alison, James, Toby, Oliver, James, Samuel and Connor who were selected to go to the Festival of Literature at Bishop’s Stortford College as a reward for their efforts with Accelerated Reader and Get Rewarded for Reading. On the trip we met the author Lucy Strange.

Simon Balle’s Got Talent 2025

We are pleased to inform you that tickets for Simon Balle’s Got Talent 2025 are now available for purchase on the parent portal. The show is on Monday 28th April between 6-8pm in the secondary hall. The tickets are £3, and all proceeds will be donated to the charity Herts Mind. Please come along and support our students who are performing! To purchase tickets, go to the parent portal, go to Make a Booking, then Music Events. Please select SBAS Talent Show. You will receive an email confirmation of your purchased tickets. Many thanks!

Parent Staff Association

My Nametags

Lost property is constantly being found from both phases of the school.  Items that are named are more likely to be returned to their owner. When you order name labels via My Nametags and enter our school ID (37273), My Nametags will pay the PSA commission.  This is a great way to minimise lost property while fundraising at the same time!

Spring Meeting – Tuesday 29th April, 7pm

Join us for our first meeting as a new committee. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend.  Head to the secondary library for 7pm where we will be reviewing recent fundraisers and discussing upcoming events such as the Slice of Summer and exciting plans for the autumn term. We look forward to meeting you.  Register your attendance via this link: volunteersignup.org/WT7KY

Slice of Summer

Inflatables offer

This year, we are offering £10 wristbands that give the user unlimited use of the inflatables during the Slice of Summer.  We have a limited number of wristbands available.  To purchase, or find out more, please visit the PSA website.

Volunteers

Calling all Larch families  we need just 4 volunteers per year group to run games this year. Can you help? Our VolunteerSignUp link is now open!

  • Reception Game, Hook-a-duck
  • Year 1 Game, Captain Hook’s Rings
  • Year 2 Game, Buried Treasure
  • Year 3 Game, Teddy Tombola (watch out for a donation request!)
  • Year 4 Game, Splat-the-rat
  • Year 5 Game, Human Fruit Machine
  • Year 6 Game, Nerf Fruit Splat

Secondary students, can you help to serve ice cream or run the Boba Bar or inflatable archery?

Secondary families, we need you too! Can you help run the bar, candy floss, bottle tombola or admissions desk?

Sign up to a volunteer slot BEFORE Friday 2nd May to benefit from FREE entry and FREE tokens to redeem anywhere at the fair, on PSA operated areas. 1 token per volunteer, per slot.

This offer is open to all staff, parents, carers and students of the all-through community. Housepoints will be rewarded for sign ups and completion of your volunteering slot.

Raffle

We are still looking for raffle prize donations.  Can you help?  Have you a star prize ready to donate? Last year, our star prize was a Whitstable Holiday Home stay!

If you have any unwanted gifts or new items that you would be happy to donate, we would be incredibly grateful. Or, if you run a business and would like to contribute a product or service, we would love to showcase your generosity!

Every donation helps us raise valuable funds for the school, and we truly appreciate your support.

We are aiming to open our Summer Raffle ticket sales via our website after the Easter break.

psa@simonballepsa.org.uk

Stallholders

If you are interested in taking a pitch at this year’s summer fair, please register on our Stallholder Register and we will be in touch if you can offer something that we do not already have.

All Saints Church Easter Trail

Explore the story of Easter during the upcoming school holidays!

From Sunday 13th April there will an unsupervised interactive Easter Story Trail for you to follow around some of All Saints churchyard! Start at the poster on the glass doors inside the church porch.

You will need a smartphone that can read QR codes and enough data to access and watch videos and an adult accompanying you.
There are five posters to find with five QR codes to scan which will retell the Easter story in a fun and engaging way. The posters will be easily visible and accessible from a path.
Have fun and Happy Easter when it comes!

Restaurants, Pubs and Cafes where kids can eat free during the various UK 2025 school holidays.

Legends Tennis offer

We would love to continue offering the chance for your students to have a go at a brand-new sport! Therefore, we are offering another free taster session on Saturday 26th April, 11-12pm at Legends Tennis Centre, College Rd, Hertford Heath, Hertford, SG13 7NU.
Our session will incorporate fundamental ABC skills such as balance and coordination, as well as offering students an introduction to the game of tennis, including the key shots tennis players use. The session will include warm up games, fun and interactive activities as well as games throughout!
Students who sign up via the following link, will also receive a discount code to enable them to book on to our programmed sessions at Legends Tennis Centre:

https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/LegendsTennisCentre/Coaching/Book/0fd82ff4-8575-4458-8f0d-1ced8b6a48bf

Dates for your diary

A full calendar of events can be viewed on the school website.

  • Tues 22nd April: INSET day (no students on site)
  • Wed 23rd Apr: Summer term starts
  • Thurs 24th Apr: Mini Marathon
  • Mon 28th Apr: SBAS talent show
  • Mon 28th Apr: Y7 assessments start
  • Thurs 1st May: Elm Sport Centre community event, 4-6pm
  • Tues 6th May: Y8 assessments start
  • Wed 7th May: Public exams start

Wishing you all the best for the week ahead

Mrs Rachel Kirk and Mr Michael Moss (Co-headteachers)

Musical News 3 – April 2025

4th April 2025Heather Morgan

Welcome from the Director of Music

Simon Balle Music is incredible. The performances and achievements over the past few weeks remind me why we do what we do. The individual stories, the triumph, the resilience, the success. 

We work hard to celebrate each individual musician. The recent questionnaire showed what an impact we have, together with you, as part of Team Music. There will always be things that can be better, but now is the time to celebrate. We have so many incredible musicians creating music that is quite unique. The role of families is to help us celebrate everyone, not just our own! Younger musicians can see what they can aim for, older musicians can celebrate younger musicians, working together. We are one all-through Team Music.

The recent performances showcased so well what your children are achieving. From rock to disco via Big Band and the Larch. Experiences, enrichment and memories. Older musicians with A level recitals, GCSE coursework and all those deadlines. Larch musicians with music medals and instrumental exams. What we have is unique and very, very musical. You don’t get this anywhere else!

Mark Taylor, Director of Music

Fortnightly Focus

Continuing to celebrate, please could you take a moment to say WELL DONE to your musicians at home. So much has been achieved. This week alone, we have had some amazing achievement as a result of hard work.

 

 

Well done to everyone. Good luck in preparation to the 130 musicians working for exams next term. To reassure, we work with events on the calendar to accommodate everyone and we make everyone aware in plenty of time of the day the exams are on. Year 6 musicians - music exams are well after the SATS!

Well done. Fabulous. What a musical school we are! We are Team Music!

Our Musical Curriculum

 

Deer class enjoyed performing some pieces we have been learning on the glockenspiel in our Reception and KS1 Singing Assembly. They showed excellent listening skills, and played brilliantly as an ensemble. Now, Foxes will have their chance to perform.

Celebrating Our Students

Musical Exam Success

Congratulations to our students for incredible exam results!

Students from Year 4 to Year 13 have recently taken their Trinity Music Exams. This is an incredible achievement.

Please click on the logos to see the wonderful results!

Music Medal Success

Students have been busy working towards and taking their ABRSM Music Medals.

A massive congratulations to the following students!

Bronze Medals

  • Evie
  • Beatrice

What fantastic achievements! If you haven't already received your Certificate and Badge, please be assured it is on its way, but if you have concerns, please get in touch.

 

 

 

Instrumental Lessons

Great work from Heidi playing ‘Bobby Shafto’ as a duet with Mrs Johnson. 

Heidi is preparing to take her Copper Music Medal. We do get all our Larch musicians to have their first exam as a music medal during their musical journey! They are a fabulous stepping stone to Grade 1!

Well done to everyone, especially Heidi for this recording!

The Guitar Ensembles have been busy rehearsing this term.

Here is a taster of some of the music you can hear in our forthcoming concert on Thursday 1st May.

 

Click the right corner for more videos

Music Mondays

Congratulations to the following who have all performed at a Music Monday this term;

Ryan, Lucas, Lorcan, Lucy, Ziva,

Lewis, Jamie, Ethan, Lucas.

Assembly Performances

Well done to Kiera, Alba, Noah, Juliette, Willow and Amelia who all performed violin pieces in the Celebration Assembly this week.

 

The Grade 8 Club!

Achieving Grade 8 is always an amazing feeling. As part of our celebrations, we are showcasing some of our musicians who have Grade 8. Today with Merry, Lucy and Kitty who all achieved Grade 8 this week. They are brilliant musicians and so committed.

Celebrating our Performances

Simon Balle Music Live!

I really enjoyed the choir and strings concert! It was probably one of the best ones yet! I especially liked the big song at the end because everyone in the audience got to stand up to dance and sing! I also really enjoyed singing afterglow in the secondary choir. I just thought the harmonies worked perfectly and came out beautifully! Plus, I think the Wicked songs were such a good idea! Everyone knew them and they were really fun to do!

Lucy

Simon Balle Music Live!

Larch Celebration of Music

We continue to be proud of our Larch musicians - our musicians of the future. We have said it before and we will say it again. What our musicians in the Larch create is incredible. Such a high standard of musicality for one primary phase. Well done to everyone. Team work makes the dream work!

Do have a listen to a recording from the recent celebration. It is utterly fabulous.

 

Year 2 Strings Training Celebration

Well done to our fabulous Year 2 musicians who have started this year on their instrumental learning journey. Once again, this is fabulous and an incredible achievement. So many Year 2 musicians performing so musically. Well done everyone! Do listen and celebrate!

Rock Gig

I think that it was a nice scene and it was good to see others play. I was scared at first but when I started playing, I got into it and lost my fear. I made one or two mistakes but I got back in time quickly. I did feel though it went well. My highlight was when I stood on stage and just breathed in, and played.

Kieran

 

Coming up!

Click here to see all of our upcoming events - there is so much music to celebrate!

What’s On

Click the poster for event details!

Career Opportunities 28

27th March 2025Ciaran Prendergast

Choices – Apprenticeship Magazine – March Edition

This month’s Choices is a special edition with a SEND focus, featuring inspirational apprentices who have shared their stories of how they have overcome different personal challenges.

https://www.amazingapprenticeships.com/resources/choices-magazine-march-parent-carers-guide/?utm_source=march&utm_medium=choices&utm_campaign=aa+newsletter

Business & Accounting

Easter Work Experience

Thursday 17th April, 10am – 3pm

 

Are you interested in breaking into the world of business and accounting? If so then this work experience is for you! This Easter break, we have teamed up with 5 of the worlds biggest accounting and professional services firms to give students an incredible insight to what its really like working within the industry and becoming a top business professional at a leading international firm.

We have big 4 firm KPMG, BDO, Grant Thornton, S&W and CIMA joining us to run hands on practical workshops with you to show you what it’s really like working in the industry and how you could grow your career as a successful accountant, consultant or tax adviser. You will have the opportunity to work on business projects, conduct a profit and loss on a company, work on a consulting project as well as getting the chance to pitch your ideas and work to the professionals across the day.

On top of this we will be setting up dedicated workshop / networking booths so you can have 1-1 conversations with people from these companies to get your questions answered and find out about all the key programmes on offer, deadlines to apply as well as summer work experience opportunities along with graduate and apprenticeship programmes.

Key Details: 

  • Business & Accounting Work Experience during the Easter Holidays
  • Thursday 17th April 10am – 3pm
  • Employers involved are; KPMG, BDO, Grant Thornton, S&W, CIMA and the University of Law Business School
  • An opportunity to take part in business and accounting workshops, hear from 5 international firms as well as the UK’s biggest university offering business degrees
  • Networking opportunities in the virtual booths
  • Certificate of completion sent out to all students who take part in the day

If you would like to secure your place, please apply on the below link.

Application Link: 

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Business-Finance-Easter

 

Young Professionals Easter Law

Work Experience Day

Linklaters, Fragomen & ULaw

Tuesday 15th April, 10am – 3pm

We have an incredible opportunity landing this Easter break for all students interested in getting into the world of law.

Magic Circle Law Firm Linklaters, the worlds biggest Immigration Law Firm Fragomen and the UK’s leading Law University, ULaw are joining us to offer students a whole day of legal knowledge, workshops and insights to the sector for aspiring lawyers. This will be an immersive one day experience online via Zoom where you will get the chance to learn more about law, what it takes to make your way to the top in a law firm and take part in some legal case workshops to really put your skills to the test as a commercial lawyer.

If you think you’ve got what it takes to step into the shoes of a corporate lawyer for the day and have a go at some real world cases then this event is for you!

Key Details:

  • Law Work Experience during the Easter Holidays
  • Tuesday 15th April 10am – 3pm
  • Employers involved are; Linklaters, Fragomen and University of Law
  • An opportunity to take part in legal workshops, hear from two international law firms as well as the UK’s biggest university offering law degrees
  • Networking opportunities in the virtual booths
  • Certificate of completion sent out to all students who take part in the day

If you would like to secure your place, please apply on the below link.

Application Link:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/YP-GetintoLaw-WEx

 

Opportunities from employers and universities

 University of Portsmouth: HE advisers’ conference
Join our HE Advisers’ Conference on Wednesday 21 May 2025 to help shape your students’ futures. Connect with university staff, advisers, and educators at our city centre campus. Highlights include a UCAS update on the 2026 personal statement and a plenary on future careers. Personalise your experience with subject activities, tours, and demos. Don’t miss this chance to learn and collaborate! Book your place here

 Volvo Trucks: level 3 apprenticeship opportunities
Volvo trucks have Level 3 apprenticeships opportunities available on their heavy vehicle technology programme. Learners complete residential training at Volvo’s bus and truck training academy as well as on the job learning in electronics, diagnostics and computer management systems, all supported by dedicated mentors at sites across the UK.  Salary – £302 p/w. Apply soon

 Bangor University: teachers and advisers conference
Join the Teachers and Advisers Conference at Bangor University on Friday 9th May 2025. Get insights on UCAS, student finance, wellbeing, and network with academic staff. Up to £100 travel support available. Book your place here

 Ricoh UK: apprenticeship opportunities
Apprenticeships in engineering, finance, IT and business compliance are on offer for post 16 and post 18 school leavers. With roles available in their Shropshire and Scottish sites, but with offices based across the UK, these Ricoh opportunities are a fantastic opportunity to earn whilst gaining formal qualifications. Apply early as the roles will close once recruitment numbers are met. Share with students

 Queens University Belfast: get £100 to visit campus
Join us for a Queen’s Belfast Open Day on 7 June or 6 September. You’ll get £100 if you’re coming from Great Britain. Hear from real students, explore campus, and experience life in one of the UK’s most exciting, affordable student cities. Share with students

⭐ London Early Years Foundation: student hub
“Your space to explore resources and insights to kickstart your career” London Early Years Student Hub is here to help inspire your students with information about work placements, insight days, apprenticeships and more.  A range of webinars, articles and reports are available to help inspire your students to choose a purpose driven career! Share with students

✏️ City St George’s: teachers and advisers day
City, University of London and St George’s, University of London have merged to form City St George’s, University of London. Meet both our Schools Liaison teams at our Teachers and Advisers Day on Tuesday 10th June 2025. Learn about personal statement changes, Clearing processes, and connect with fellow advisers at this free event. Register today!

⚡ Energus: nuclear restoration services apprenticeships
Build a career in the growing nuclear sector withhundreds of opportunities in the UK and beyond.  A range of apprenticeships from Level 2- Level 6 are open offering the chance to learn on the job, supported by industry professionals all whilst gaining professional qualifications. Roles are available across the UK and students must be 18 years old. Apply by 25 April

Newsletter 12

21st March 2025David Ayres

Friday 21st March

Co-headteachers’ welcome

It has, quite simply, been a magnificent and magical March to date! Whilst our classrooms from Reception to Year 13 remain a-buzz with the joy of learning across our broad and ambitious curriculum, it is our privilege and pleasure to be writing to you in this newsletter with a spotlight on three subjects: science, music and PE. Please do look forward to future newsletters placing a similar spotlight on other areas – we have so much that we are proud to share with you all. 

Last week was British Science Week, and, at Simon Balle All-through School, it was a week full of enrichment and experiences to remember. Whether your passion is chemistry, biology or physics, or all three, there was so much to engage our budding scientists. To give just a flavour, the explosive nature of ‘Fizz Whizz Bang’ inspired all; rat dissections were both informative and intriguing for many; the Great Science Bake off added a fantastic twist to enrich student experiences; and Bernoulli’s principle was simply off the scale (you will have to ask the students and/or google for yourself!). Quizzes and species hunts, amidst the usual busy and thriving science department lessons, made this a week to remember. Particular thanks are offered to our science ambassadors in the sixth form: they had a starring role in generating engagement and interest across Simon Balle, including excellent work supporting Year 6-8 enrichment after school on Wednesday. How fortunate we are to be a part of an all-through school where STEM is prioritised, where academic achievements in science are simply outstanding, and where enrichment in weeks like this ensure that science is fun, relevant and meaningful for every student. Thank you team science!

It is tricky to do justice in words to the exceptional opportunities and experiences in Team Music this fortnight (and always). Their musical newsletter is linked below and we encourage you to visit this for not only more information, but also recordings, videos, sound-bites, photographs and a great window into music at Simon Balle All-through School. We are so proud of our musical community which is thriving, inclusive and always innovative. An incredible ⅓ of our whole school are learning an instrument; statistics like this exceed the national comparison by an unbelievable margin. Recent highlights include our Larch celebration concert on Wednesday with 130 Larch musicians involved. 130! We are so appreciative of parental support which leads to committed musicians (from strings to wind/brass to large choirs of every age) so clearly enjoying music-making at such a high standard. We must never take this for granted! Our unique all-through school of course leads to experiences and concerts a-plenty where young look up to older peers. Many, many students and their families will attest to the joy of the concert in school last Saturday. Inspired by a disco prom at the Royal Albert Hall last summer (yes, you read that right!), team music reached standards arguably higher than ever before! A transformation of the secondary hall with professional lighting and disco balls inspired musicians to perform a concert off the scale from ambition, vision and collaboration – strings, singing, rhythm section and wind/brass. At Simon Balle, Mr Taylor and his team are always seeking new ideas and new ways to inspire – we are so appreciative and know that this is just so unique! We are looking forward next to the Celebration of Wind and Brass – entitled ‘Postcards – Travels from across the world’, and we wish good luck to the 56 musicians who have a music exam in 2 weeks time. All of the above is achieved through commitment – staff, young people, and you all as their families – please keep ‘nagging’ for practice as, with this, great things happen here, every day.

You will not have missed the excitement building as our sports hall nears completion. The Elm Sports Centre at Simon Balle All-through School will open very soon, and the state of the art facilities will benefit every one of our young people from Reception – Year 13. Please look out for communication related to the experiences on offer as we launch and build. In the meantime, PE at Simon Balle All-through School is alive and thriving! We cannot do justice to the breadth of sports nor student achievements in just a summary here but daily opportunities are leading to students representing Simon Balle with pride, demonstrating our values, and showcasing advanced sports skills. Just a flavour includes Year 7 district netball success; Year 11 footballers securing a spot in the district finals; Year 8 through to the semi-final football county plate and netballers winning in their district netball tournament; Years 5/6 footballers on Wednesday went through to the final of the Hope Cup for the third year in a row whilst simultaneously the Year 7 team were victorious in their semis heading into the final too; and amongst this all we have had Years 3 – 6 athletes at district athletics, preparing for Larch cross country, and all following incredible secondary trips out following the Years 8 and 9 sports tour in Spain and the ski trip at half term! Wow!

Exciting Learning Across the Larch!

Our students have been engaged in fantastic learning experiences this term! Year 6 has been working hard on their mock SATs, putting their knowledge to the test, while Year 5 has continued their inspiring careers talks, welcoming parents from our community to share their experiences. Year 4 has been learning about apartheid with guest speakers, linked to Journey to Jo’burg, and aiming high for a perfect 25/25 in their times tables. Year 3 has been busy with food technology at Pizza Express and honing their journalism skills by reporting on The Iron Man, who has been spotted munching on the village’s cars! Year 2 is focused on improving their reading, eager to explore new texts, and Year 1 has been out and about searching for signs of spring as part of their science lessons—enjoying welly walks in the sunshine. Meanwhile, Reception has been getting creative, exploring How to Catch a Star and coming up with their own beautifully illustrated “how-to” books. So much to celebrate!

On the pastoral side, we’re excited to introduce new Drawing and Talking Therapy sessions, helping students explore and understand their emotions in a supportive setting.

And finally, our dedicated staff have also been working hard on progress reports, ready to celebrate the fantastic achievements of our students with parents as we wrap up the Spring term!

Thank you Simon Balle. To students, families, staff, and governors/trustees, we are proud to lead this exceptionally positive school with an environment and ethos where a sense of belonging is shown above and whereby great things happen each and every day. 

Music

We are delighted to share our Music Newsletter with you, featuring Big Band Evening, incredible exam results & much much more! 

Please click Team Music to read!

Year 8 MFL Trip to Málaga and Granada

Our Year 8 students had an unforgettable time on their trip to Málaga and Granada, where they immersed themselves in Spanish language and culture. Highlights of the visit included a paella cooking class, a language lesson, and a guided tour of the breathtaking Alhambra Palace and the historic city of Granada. Students also enjoyed an energetic flamenco lesson, embracing the rhythm and passion of this traditional dance. Despite a few rain showers, they made the most of every opportunity to practise their Spanish in real-life situations. They were a credit to the school, demonstrating enthusiasm, curiosity, and excellent behaviour throughout the trip. ¡Bien hecho, Year 8!

Sports Tour 2025 Malaga

The PE department took 105 students on a Sports Tour to Malaga at the beginning of March. We had 4 boys football teams, 2 girls football teams and 3 netball teams. The football teams received training sessions delivered by Malaga FC Academy coaches and Netball training was delivered by a professional coach. 

Netball

The netball squad put on an excellent display during the sports tour, showing great skill, resilience, and sportsmanship throughout. From the first training session, the coach was impressed by the girls’ attitude and work ethic, highlighting their politeness and dedication. The focus was on ball skills and moving onto the ball, followed by team practice for the evening matches.

That evening, we traveled to Gibraltar to face strong local teams. The B and C teams showed outstanding determination, developing as a squad, while the A team narrowly lost by one goal, fueling their motivation for the next day. Despite the rain disrupting our schedule, the team adapted brilliantly, taking part in a gym session and recovery swim (which felt like an ice bath!). They also bonded through team-building activities, creating their own team names and netball chants.

Returning to Gibraltar for the final matches, the teams displayed tenacity and versatility, implementing tactics and strategies effectively. Competing against established club teams was a challenge, especially with limited time together, but the players stepped up in both attack and defense. The A team finished with a fantastic win by five goals.

Every player was a credit to the school, demonstrating teamwork, resilience, and a passion for the game. Well done to all!

Football

The sports tour was an unforgettable experience for our 82 footballers, providing them with the opportunity to test themselves against strong Spanish club sides. The trip commenced with a visit to a top-tier training venue, where each team was introduced to their professional coach, who would lead their training sessions throughout their stay in Marbella. During an intensive two-hour coaching masterclass, players honed their skills in isolated drills, semi-competitive scenarios, and fully competitive match situations.

On the first evening, each team faced their Spanish counterparts at various high-quality pitches—some of the finest the students had ever played on, with many remarking, “These are the nicest pitches I have ever seen.” The matches provided a valuable learning experience, demonstrating the physical and tactical demands of Spanish football. Despite the challenge, all teams showcased resilience and adaptability, with the Year 9A team securing our first international victory with a well-earned 3-1 win.

Day two saw us return to the training venue, where each pro coach had tailored personalized training programs based on their team’s performance from the previous night’s matches. This strategic approach played a key role in improving each team’s performance in their second round of games. As the teams grew in confidence, their teamwork flourished, resulting in excellent linking play and well-placed goals—even against opponents significantly larger than them. A standout moment came from the Girls’ B team, whose determination and grit held their Spanish opponents to a 1-1 draw before securing victory in a tense penalty shootout, marking our second international win.

Overall, the tour was a remarkable experience, fostering skill development, teamwork, and resilience. The players returned home with valuable lessons, unforgettable memories, and a sense of pride in their achievements on the international stage.

We also had the chance to visit Marbella town for some shopping and explored the local area including the beach. We also went on a Dolphin Cruise in Gibraltar on which we were very lucky to see dolphins swimming in their natural environment! We also had some fun bowling and enjoyed a Sports Tour Presentation Ceremony during our last evening in which we celebrated lots of success across the week. 

We would like to say how proud we were of all of our students and how behaviour was impeccable throughout the week. I’d also like to extend a huge thank you to the staff who helped to make the tour a memorable one for our students. These are: Miss Newman, Miss Baker, Miss Quinton, Mrs Dovey, Mr Moses, Mr Morgan, Mr Rouse, Mr Goodwin, Mr Dear and Mr King. 

Mrs Castle – Tour Leader

Please click here for our latest Careers Opportunity blog which includes opportunities for:

Science

Year 7L created amazing models of specialised cells as part of their unit on Cells.  There was a lovely variety from both plant and animal cells being made! Students were tasked with this for homework and to use materials at home along with information such as adaptations and functions for their specialised cell.

Larch Spurs coaching session

We are delighted to be welcoming Tottenham Hotspur Football Club to run some sessions with children in KS1 and KS2 in the next coming weeks and to inspire our children. Spurs have asked us to send out the below leaflets ahead of the sessions with them.

Next Gen Spurs info flyer

Library News

Simon Balle’s Got Talent 2025 – auditions and date of the show

Mr Dear, Miss Rooke and Ms Cannon are holding auditions for students between years 7-12 to audition for the talent show – the auditions will be held in Mr Dear’s classroom (Q1) on Wednesday 26th March. All are welcome to audition!

The new date for the talent show is Monday 28th April – more details to follow!

SEND

Virtual Appointments

If you would like to speak to a member of the SEND team, please schedule a virtual appointment of up to 15 minutes by using the following link: Virtual SEND Team Appointments

SEND – Exams & Revision

For additional information, support and guidance for students in preparation for exams and during exams – please click on the Youngminds link below:

Youngminds – SEND Exam/Revision Tips

Courses for Parents and Carers

Details of courses that may be of interest to parents can be found here Courses & Training Parents – Mar.docx

HCC SEND News – Keeping you up-to-date with Hertfordshire’s SEND information

Welcome to the SEND News bulletin.

View SEND News

In this issue: 

Please let us know if you have any problems viewing this e-newsletter or if you have any articles to contribute to the next edition by emailing sendnews@hertfordshire.gov.uk

Parent Staff Association

Spring Meeting – Tuesday 29th April, 7pm

Join us for our first meeting as a new committee.  Get to know our new team: Co-chairs – Leah Wood and Chloe Merrick,  Treasurer – Mike Cohen and interim Secretary – Hayley Fairbrother. 

Everyone is welcome, you do not have to be a committee member to attend.

Head to the secondary library for 7pm where we will be reviewing recent fundraisers and discussing upcoming events such as the Slice of Summer and exciting autumn plans. We look forward to meeting you.

Register your attendance via this link: volunteersignup.org/WT7KY

Spring Meet 

Slice of Summer – Saturday 12th July, 12-4pm

Volunteers

Our all-through VolunteerSignUp link is now open!

Each Larch year group is being invited to run a game, that’s only four volunteers per year!

Secondary phase students and families – we need your help too.  Take a look to see how you can get involved.

Sign up to a volunteer slot BEFORE Friday 2nd May to benefit from FREE entry and FREE tokens to redeem anywhere at the fair, on a PSA operated area. 1 token per volunteer, per slot.

This offer is open to all staff, parents, carers and students of the all-through community.

Inflatables Offer

This year, we are offering £10 wristbands that give the user unlimited use of the inflatables during the Slice of Summer.  We have a limited number of wristbands available.  To purchase, or find out more, please visit the PSA website.

Raffle

We need your help to make our Raffle a big success! 

If you have any unwanted gifts or new items that you would be happy to donate, we would be incredibly grateful. Or, if you run a business and would like to contribute a product or service, we would love to showcase your generosity!

Every donation helps us raise valuable funds for the school, and we truly appreciate your support.

We are aiming to open our Summer Raffle ticket sales via our website after the Easter break.

psa@simonballepsa.org.uk

Dates for your diary

A full calendar of events can be viewed on the school website.

  • Fri 21st – Sun 23rd Mar: Model United Nations conference
  • Tues 25th Mar: Y12 UCAS trip
  • Wed 26th Mar: Rock Gig
  • Thurs 27th Mar: Y7 student consultation evening
  • Tuesday 1st Apr: Y8 student consultation evening
  • Wed 2nd – Fri 4th Apr: Y7 Bawdsey Manor trip
  • Friday 4th April term ends (normal school day)
  • Tues 22nd April: INSET day (no students on site)
  • Wed 23rd Apr: Summer term starts
  • Mon 28th Apr: SBAS talent show

Wishing you all the best for the week ahead

Mrs Rachel Kirk and Mr Michael Moss (Co-headteachers)

Musical News 2 – March 2025

14th March 2025Heather Morgan

Welcome from the Director of Music

We are in the middle of our performance season. So much music, so much celebration and enjoyment. It is an amazing, if busy, time of year. Times like this remind everyone why we do what we do. Your part in that, supporting our musicians is essential. Do take time to read here and celebrate what everyone is doing, not just those that you know.

We are a Team, everyone. One third of the school. You might be surprised with what goes on, some of which you had no idea!

Mark Taylor, Director of Music

Fortnightly Focus

Simon Balle is a musical school. We are proud that we are a musical school. Sometimes, we have to remind everyone in Team Music what this actually means!

  • Pride and celebration. When we work hard, amazing musical things happen. Just look at our website!
  • Practice. Music takes practice, at least 3 times a week. In the Larch, families must supervise practice. Secondary musicians should be practising at least 4 times per week. We are all busy, but when practice is completed, the lessons are amazing!
  • Commitment. Ensembles take commitment. Music is commitment. Missing a rehearsal lets the team down. We are all busy, but we choose to be musicians and we have to commit! 
  • Working together. The team work. We are all part of the team. 

It is good to remind everyone of our values and ethos. Sometimes, we forget - life takes over. By building routines for practice and commitment at home, every week, you are helping create amazing Simon Balle Musicians.

Our Musical Curriculum

In Year 2, students have been working hard at playing the song ‘Naughty Pussycat’ on the glockenspiel. They have also been working on recognising the note middle C when written in music notation. I hope you enjoy these recordings!

Deer Class:

Foxes Class:

Celebrating Our Students

Musical Exam Success

Congratulations to David who recently passed his Grade 1 Piano with Merit.

After he worked really hard towards his exam, we are delighted for David with this well-deserved result.

Music Medal Success

Larch Students have been busy working towards and taking their ABRSM Music Medals.

A massive congratulations to the following students!

Copper Medals:

  • Šimon
  • George
  • Roux
  • Ethan
  • Amelia

Silver Medals:

  • Iris
  • Lucas
  • Zak

What fantastic achievements! If you haven't already received your Certificate and Badge, please be assured it is on its way, but if you have concerns, please get in touch.

 

 

 

KS1 Singing Assemblies

Each week KS1 comes together on Tuesday morning for a Singing Assembly.

Singing is a great way to be creative and have fun! It is also an important tool in many ways helping with language development and memory.

Songs are learnt over a number of weeks with a lot of repetition allowing the children to have a sense of achievement when they manage to sing more the following week. 

Please enjoy this snippet!

Instrumental Lessons

Year 6 Flautists working together to develop so many musical skills. 

Well done Gemma, Valentina & Florrie!

It is great to hear a snippet from music lessons. Here is a recording from Sofia's guitar lesson with Mr Niesyto.

All is Found from Frozen 2, Sofia has been working on in her lesson. Well done on a fantastic recording!

Celebrating our Performances

An Evening with the Simon Balle Big Band

A fantastic evening with so much support from families and students! Read what musicians had to say about it and enjoy the videos!

"Big Band evening this year was extraordinary. The feeling of playing with a band that is like a family is unmatched. Getting to see all of the parents let loose in the audience and dance to music we are performing feels like such an amazing achievement. This year was extra special to me as I got to play my first solos at a Big Band evening, and I got to sing a song! When we are performing we do really feel a part of the community and the happiness it brings is something I hope everyone watching can feel."

Merry, Big Band

"I played tenor saxophone in Big Band 2 which was such an incredible experience! We played multiple pieces which I think went really well and it was so fun to play in front of an audience with the lights. My highlight of the night was either doing a solo, which was nerve-racking but also such an amazing memory, or dancing and singing with my friends. The whole evening had such a wonderful atmosphere and it was so nice to see the audience of all ages singing along!"

Holly, Big Band 2

An Evening with the Simon Balle Big Band

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

An All-through Celebration of Brass

An evening filled with a fantastic programme of music performed by a talented group of musicians from Year 4 to Year 13. 

"My favourite piece to play was “The Final Countdown” because it is dramatic, I know the piece very well and the Tenor Horn (the instrument I play) got to play the main tune. I also enjoyed the opportunity to play a short solo in “The Second Line”. It was fun but nerve-wracking as I had to improvise which I have never done before in front of an audience. My favourite piece played by the secondary brass Ensemble was called “Resolution”. The main lead in this piece was done by the percussion which I am also a big fan of, so it was really nice to see them be the stars of this piece! I really enjoyed playing with the secondary brass and I would love to do it again."

Charlie, Tenor Horn

"On Thursday I played in the All-through Brass Celebration along with a group of other brass players from year 4-13.  Although a lot of the pieces were quite hard to begin with, we practiced hard at our Monday lunchtime rehearsals and by the time the evening came they all sounded brilliant. We played a range pieces such as Resolution, O Magnum Mysterium and a Selection from the Secret Garden. It was a fun evening which everyone thoroughly enjoyed. My highlight was being able to perform the pieces we’ve practiced in front of our parents and my favourite piece was Selections from the Secret Garden."

Lilia, Trumpet

An All-through Celebration of Brass

 

Piano Recital

There was much to be enjoyed at our most recent Piano Recital where our March Exam Candidates took the opportunity to prepare by performing some of their pieces to an appreciative audience of family and friends.
It was great to see such a range of years (7-11) and Grades (1-6), so that parents could see the range of musical progression and I'm sure our less experienced players were inspired by the performances of others.
Well done to everyone and good luck with your Exam later this month!

"I recently attended and performed at the piano evening in the music department—my first recital here. The atmosphere was warm and supportive, with encouraging family members and teachers, making it enjoyable for both performers and the audience. I loved the variety of pieces, from Ed Sheeran to grade pieces and even an old Hindi song—a nice surprise as it was one I knew. My own performance went well, and I was happy with how it turned out, despite feeling a little nervous at first. Having attended quite a few school music events, this was one of the most comfortable and pleasant, with performers of all ages giving their best and an appreciative audience."

Nitika, Year 10

Coming up!

Click here to see all of our upcoming events - there is so much music to celebrate!

What’s On

Click the poster for event details!

Career Opportunities 27

12th March 2025Ciaran Prendergast

Choices Magazine – March Parent & Carers Guide

Choices magazine is the ultimate parent and carer guide to apprenticeships and technical education!

Click here to download the magazine and subscribe for future editions

 

PwC Teacher, Parent & Career Adviser Information Session

Wednesday, 26th March 3:30pm – 4:30pm

Supporting Future Careers – PwC Discovery Event

Helping students make informed career choices can be challenging, especially with so many opportunities available. Join us for the PwC Parent and Teacher Information Session to gain valuable insights into PwC’s career pathways and how you can support students in their journey.

Event Details

Event: PwC Parent and Teacher Information Session
Date: Wednesday, 26th March
Time: 3:30pm – 4:30pm
Location: Virtual

Why Attend?

PwC is one of the world’s leading professional services firms, offering exceptional career pathways for students through Flying Start Degree Programmes, Apprenticeships, Work Experience, and Graduate opportunities. This session is designed to provide parents and teachers with valuable insights into:

  • The range of career opportunities available at PwC

  • How students can stand out in the application process

  • The skills and attributes PwC looks for in future talent

  • How PwC supports young professionals in their career development

This event is open to parents, guardians, teachers and careers advisers who want to understand the opportunities available for students at PwC and how to support them in making informed career decisions.

Register Now

Secure your place today to gain expert insights into PwC’s career pathways and recruitment process.

Register Here:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PwC-Parent-Teacher

 

KPMG Virtual Experience Day
Easter Holidays
Monday, 14th April – 10am – 3pm
Gain Real-World Experience with KPMG

Are you a Year 11, 12, 13 student interested in gaining work experience with one of the world’s leading professional services firms?

Join the KPMG Virtual Work Experience Day during the Easter Break to explore career opportunities in business, finance, accounting, and professional services while developing key employability skills.

Event Details

Date: Monday, 14th April

Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Location: Virtual (join from anywhere)

Who Can Attend? Year 11, 12 and 13 students

 

What to Expect?

  • Learn about KPMG’s  early career pathways
  • Take part in interactive sessions and real-world business case studies
  • Gain insights into careers in professional services
  • Hear from current apprentices and senior professionals about their experiences at KPMG

Why Attend?

This one-day virtual experience is designed to give students valuable exposure to the world of professional services, helping them build confidence, develop key skills, and gain an understanding of career opportunities at KPMG.

Whether you are considering an apprenticeship, exploring work experience or simply want to learn more about the industry, this event will provide first-hand insights and career advice to help you take the next step.

Register now to secure your place!

Register Here:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KPMG-Virtual

 

Banking & Finance Event with Lloyds Banking Group – Virtual Insight Evening

An event designed to help students get into the Banking & Finance Sector & Easter Work Experience!

Tuesday, 1st April 2025, 5:00pm – 6:00pm

Are you curious about a career in Banking and Finance? Join us for Lloyds Banking Group: Careers Live, an exclusive virtual event designed to give you insights into one of the UK’s largest financial institutions and how to make build your career within the industry!

This is your chance to learn about the wide range of career opportunities available at Lloyds Banking Group as well as their Easter Work Experience Schemes all whilst taking your first steps towards an exciting future.

Event Details:

  • Event: Lloyds Banking Group: Careers Live
  • Date: Tuesday, 1st April 2025
  • Time: 5:00pm – 6:00pm
  • Location: Zoom (link provided upon registration)

Why Attend?

Lloyds Banking Group is at the forefront of the banking and financial services sector, committed to innovation, diversity, and nurturing future talent. This event is perfect for students interested in banking, finance and business, offering a glimpse into the opportunities and pathways available within a leading organisation.

Here’s what you’ll gain:

  • Exclusive Insights into Lloyds Banking Group: Learn about the company’s role in shaping the UK economy and its commitment to supporting businesses and individuals across the country.
  • Career Opportunities: Discover apprenticeship programmes, graduate schemes, and internships designed to help you launch your career in banking, fintech, and beyond.
  • EASTER WORK EXPERIENCE – A unique link to apply on the session
  • Q&A with Industry Professionals: Ask your questions directly to LBG representatives and receive tailored advice on navigating the recruitment process and starting your career journey.

Register Here:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LBG-Finance