Pedagogy Portal – T&L Research Group

19th January 2024Ian Finch

On Tuesday morning, one of our T&L Leads, Mrs Rooke, led a staff briefing to welcome staff to our very first T&L Research Group. We have always valued the use of evidence informed research into our practice and this was a great opportunity to share and develop our knowledge under Mrs Rooke’s guidance and expertise.

Th aims of the group were to:

  • have a confident and thorough understanding of the core research underpinning the SBAS teaching and learning principles
  • identify how the research translates into classroom practice through subject/phase specific lens 
  •  identify and disseminate good practice with the wider staff body 
  • To increase professional expertise, confidence and autonomy

It was important to start with what we mean by the terms ‘Evidence Informed Practice’ and ‘Research’. Mrs Rooke led staff to identify that evidence based practice is not about telling teachers what to do; quite the opposite. It is about empowering teachers to make informed decisions for their contexts and students, using the best available evidence.

Staff were then set their own home learning to read one of the following articles / summaries about one of the educational pieces of literature below.

  • How Pupils Learn – The Science of Learning, EEF Cognitive Science in the Classroom Evidence and Practice Review, Metacognition and the seven step model
  • Rosenshine’s Principles of Instruction
  • Coe’s work -Great Teaching Toolkit: Evidence Review and Improving Education: A triumph of hope over experience.
  • Willingham’s – Why don’t students like school
  • Wiliam and Leahy’s  – Five Formative Assessment Strategies

As the respected British scholar Dylan Wiliam (2018) notably remarked: “Almost everything works someplace and absolutely nothing works every place.”

With this in mind, staff are encouraged to report back their findings and try to incorporate something new into their teaching. We will feedback of the success of the group in upcoming newsletters.

Thank you to all the staff that have taken the time to reflect on their own practice in order to help provide the best possible outcomes for the children/students.

Buildings update

15th January 2024Rachel Kirk

Dear Parents/Carers,

Re: Building and facilities developments at Simon Balle All-through School 

We are writing to make you aware of so many exciting developments already underway and planned for the near future for the facilities available at Simon Balle – from individual classroom refreshments to whole block developments across the all-through site.

It is first important for us to explain our vision – why these developments are planned and how they will enhance the lived experience of our children, wherever they are on their journey from Reception to Year 13. In 2022 we began working with a firm of architects (indeed, the lead architect is himself a former Simon Balle student!) to develop a master plan for the Simon Balle premises. The purpose of the plan is to provide us with a holistic strategy to improve the school’s buildings and estate in the most efficient and effective manner possible, with each step along the development journey further enhancing existing facilities whilst also laying the foundations for future improvements. The master plan aims to deliver these improvements in three key ways:

  • Increasing capacity – we are increasing the space that is available, both in terms of classrooms for our secondary phase, and importantly for everyone with our sports hall. Capacity increasing allows not only the best possible opportunities during the school day, but also continuation of our outstanding enrichment programme where space can be a challenge!
  • Improving quality – New buildings and refurbishments are painstakingly designed to the most modern standards for acoustics, lighting and ventilation to ensure the most comfortable working environment for our staff and students. This is of vital importance to us as the correlation between the quality of work environment and the productivity and mental and physical health and wellbeing of staff and students is well documented and established.
  • Improving teaching and learning resources – New resources purchased to support the breadth and ambition of the curriculum across our all-through school, including enhancements to both equipment and the use of displays. 

So, what is new?

The first steps of the master plan are well underway with £6.9m already invested in expanding and improving the learning and working environment for our students and staff. Already completed projects include: 

  • Critical upgrades and health and safety improvements to cold water services
  • Refurbishment of two student toilet blocks and PE changing rooms – both excellent examples of student voice in action!
  • Site security fencing
  • Jubilee suite 

As with any changes made to facilities on a busy site day to day, work is being phased and planned to ensure minimum disruption. The projects below will give you a sense, however, of further improvements coming soon (please make sure you have a look at the photos at the bottom of the page too – just click on the images to enlarge them)! 

  • Our new four-classroom block (at the back of the playground on the secondary site, looking towards the back field) is soon to be opened. Light and spacious, these are state of the art classrooms, and we are delighted that this will be housing Modern Foreign Languages (MFL) at Simon Balle. It is an incredibly exciting time at Simon Balle where the numbers of students studying French and Spanish at GCSE is increasing year on year; the new block will be opened by our current Year 6 cohort who are currently looking forward to their ‘More to experience’ weeks where they gain an insight into just how much more the secondary phase has to offer them!
  • Our mobile classrooms, currently housing Business and Explorers and IT are being replaced with new, modern buildings. The Jubilee suite is almost ready to house Explorers (Years 3 – 6), with a newly fitted kitchen and bathroom, and with direct outdoor access to the trim trail and Astro. Our new IT classroom is large and fitted with all technology required for the continued success of Computer Science from Year 7 – Year 13. There are some internal movements too for business and other departments – more to follow!
  • Another multi-functional education ‘suite’ is arriving to be placed near to the new MFL block. As a larger space, this supports so many important areas of school life – including a sixth form study area when exams are taking place, and a large space for external speakers – supporting our careers and PSHRE programmes. 
  • Within Art, we are delighted to announce the arrival of our new kiln. This will be a superb addition to our ceramics programme, both within the main curriculum and extra-curricular, primary phase and secondary. Within drama, an investment is being made into new lighting for the drama studio, ensuring the highest quality of equipment to support students of all ages and, of course, importantly at GCSE. 
  • In the Larch, as well as new signage, we are very excited that a bespoke design is currently in process for an important, large history display which will be placed in the centre of the building, around the library walls. Reflecting all units within our history curriculum Reception – Year 6, the timeline will support children in understanding the chronology of historical events so that they can understand sequencing, and ensure that new learning is building on their prior learning of times, places and concepts.
  • We are maximising opportunities to create quality outdoor recreational and educational spaces for all of our students including seating, canopies, landscaping and improvements to our outdoor classroom.
  • Last (for now!), but certainly not least, we are so excited about the building work, due to start imminently, on our sports hall. From badminton to cricket, from netball to basketball, our four court sports hall will not only be a wonderful resource, but will also release pressure on our other multi-use halls and gym, and serve our Hertford community. 

Sustainability is a key consideration and the environment is an important stakeholder in our decision-making. New buildings are designed to consume as little energy as possible (for example, the sports hall will be passively ventilated and utilise sun tubes) and will include solar panels wherever possible. Refurbished or second life materials and furniture are also used wherever appropriate to reduce our carbon footprint and promote a circular economy. The next steps in the master plan will also allow us to decarbonise the site’s heating and an application for a further £2m in government funding was submitted in December 23 to this end.

Safeguarding is, as ever, our first priority, and together with the work last year to add gates and fencing around the whole perimeter of the site, the sports hall will create a professional and welcoming face to the front of the school. 

Financially, all of this is being achieved through: 

  • Excellent work by our Director of Business to apply for government funding – not just our £4m sports hall or £1.1m MFL block, but work that is continuing to deliver essential upgrades to the site’s electrical infrastructure, fire safety and central heating. 
  • Prudent and careful financial management by our governors and senior leaders.
  • PSA funding – here we are so grateful to the whole of the PSA, and every single parent/carer who has supported in so many events every year. The PSA are specifically funding the kiln for Art, the lighting in drama, the Larch history display and the humanities classroom refurbishment which took place in the summer.  

Apologies for such a long letter – we will do our best to continue to provide updates on social media, our website and newsletters, including with many photographs. Following this letter, there will be more communication coming to you in relation to practical updates – for example, where there will be a change of pedestrian routes to ensure the safety of everybody with building works taking place. As you have already read, car parking will be significantly reduced  – but, in essence, this is no different to what has already been shared many times before as our car park is only intended for staff and for visitors to Simon Balle. 

We hope that all stakeholders are as equally excited to read this update, as we are in writing it! 

Please direct any questions to Mr Ayres who is our Assistant Headteacher leading on operations at Simon Balle: ayresd@simonballe.herts.sch.uk 

Yours sincerely,

Mrs Rachel Kirk, Mr Michael Moss and Mr Haydn Walsh

Co-headteachers and Director of Business 

 

 

 

Career Opportunities 5

10th January 2024Ciaran Prendergast

Discover Virgin Media O2 Apprenticeships! – Virgin Media O2

Industry: Computing & IT

Target Area for Student Applications: UK wide

Date: 08/02/2024

Time: 10:00 am – 11:00 am

Ages: 14-19

Application Closing Date: 25/01/2024

With new apprenticeships being released all year round, the variety available is wider than ever. Whether your students want to be out and about helping customers, diving into the data that drives the business, or connecting communities through network expansion, there’s something for everyone.

So join us on 8th February at 10am to meet current Apprentices and the Virgin Media O2 Future Careers team!

To book a workshop for your students please use the booking form.

 

Fully funded work experience opportunities:

https://www.canva.com/design/DAFgWrcGXkU/DtycRdW77kMpQi8TB9Qjrg/view 

 

Y11 & Y13 GSK opportunity:

Our GSK Application Process is open for the following apprenticeships at the Ware Global Supply Chain manufacturing site –

Engineering
Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Engineering
Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS)
Project Management
Data Science
Business & Supply Chain (Logistics)

Apprenticeships are available at Level 3 that people can apply for with GSCEs, through to Level 6 degree apprenticeships which will require A levels/BTecs. Full details available on the jobs web page for each apprenticeship. The successful candidates will starting working with us in September 2024.

Click here for further information 

 

Y12 – Engineering Opportunities – Engineering Development Trust:

Reminder – applications closing soon!

Important information to share with your Year12 students as our Residential Insight into University course applications close at the end of January – so only 3 weeks to go.

To apply, please complete an online application, here. Please see the course list below, with links to the course content, details and dates;

Materials Science at the University of Oxford – Read more

Materials Science at the University of Cambridge – Read more

Broad-Based Engineering at the University of Sheffield – Read more

Aerospace Engineering at the University of Liverpool – Read more

Maths at Lancaster University – Read more

Mechanical Engineering at UCL – Read more

Ocean & Earth Science at the University of Southampton – Read more

Physics and Astronomy at the University of Surrey – Read more

Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry at Aston University – Read more

Broad-Based Engineering at the University of Salford – Read more

 

Unifrog – Virtual Apprenticeship Fair

Wednesday 7 February @ 16:30 UK time

Get involved with National Apprenticeship Week! Join our virtual fair to learn all about the world of apprenticeships. Explore the latest apprenticeship opportunities, attend live sessions with top employers including BBC, British Army, KPMG, Lloyds Banking Group and Unilever, and network one-on-one to get top tips on how to find and apply for your dream apprenticeship.

To register: students should sign into their Unifrog account,click on the ‘webinar’ tool and register for the event.

 

Construction opportunities:

HOP into Construction to your students which is on the 22nd Feb 2024 @ Oaklands College, this is during half term.

https://www.hopinto.co.uk/events/hop-into-construction-taster-day/

There are two sessions, drylining and groundworks.

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/hop-into-construction-taster-day-groundworks-tickets-778233215497?aff=oddtdtcreator

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/hop-into-construction-taster-day-drylining-tickets-778214118377?aff=oddtdtcreator

Hop into Construction is an opportunity for anyone with an interest in the construction industry to meet several of the largest employers in the industry, regardless of whether they want to go into these roles or another role in construction.

Any potential Site Managers, Architects, Surveyors or Engineers should book either one or both sessions, have a little fun, learn a new skill and meet what could be, their first employer.

 

Upcoming Apprenticeship Opportunities for Year 13 students:

– Applications are now open to Y13 students for the Dyson Institute’s fully-funded Masters in Engineering programme. This is the start of an accelerated Dyson career with international opportunities to shape the future of engineering and innovation. Click here for more information

– Calling Y13 students who want to help shape this country’s future while gaining a degree. The Government Economic Service and Social Research Profession offer a trail-blazing degree apprenticeship in economics and social research. Roles available across the UK; salaries start at £24k. Click here for more information

– Seeking tech-savvy Y13 students for investment management apprenticeships and traineeships in London and Surrey. Apply across Technology, Client Services, Marketing, Finance, and other areas. All students are encouraged to apply – there are no UCAS requirements, and salaries start from £25k. Click here for more information

 

Year 10 – 12 students – Deloitte opportunity:

– Career Shapers is a great chance for students to immerse in Deloitte’s friendly, diverse community. Explore how different career paths align to each person’s unique talents and strengths. Applications open to: Y10-12 in England and Wales, Y12-13 in NI, and S4-5 in Scotland. Click here for more information

 

Pathways2Property – Y12 Students

Real Estate Insight day in Cambridge on 13th March in order to help students discover more about careers within the property Industry.

Students will go on a site visit, work on a small project and have a Q&A session with both current and recent Real Estate graduates who are now working in the Industry.  They will also be assisting students throughout the day. The day will be fully funded by Pathways2property including travel costs to and from the venue.

Applications can be found here on our website here and will close on 15th February. Priority will be given to those students that live in the Cambridge area and fit within our criteria.

Students that have attended any one of our programmes will subsequently be able to take part in our work experience and e-mentoring programme and they will also be able to apply for a bursary of up to £30,000 should they go on to study a property related degree at any University.  If they apply to study a Real Estate course at the University of Reading they will be guaranteed a contextual offer and will automatically be given £2500 once enrolled.

We are a charity funded by the Real Estate Industry who are keen to support students from less advantaged and non-traditional backgrounds.  In the 10 years we have been running we have engaged with over 26,400 students – 22% of attendees of our Summer school have since gone on to study or work in property.  Further information can be found on our website or you can contact me on pathways2property@henley.ac.uk

We are running a 4 day residential at the University of Reading on 2nd – 5th July if students would prefer this (they cannot do both) – please see our website for further information and an application form.

Our programmes are suitable for students that want a career in property or are just unsure of what they want to do to – it may just provide the aspiration a student needs!

 

Virtual Medicine and Dentistry Opportunities – Y10 – 12

For aspiring Doctors: FREE LIVE VIRTUAL Get Into Medicine conference dates:
Saturday 13th January, 9:30am – 3pm
Sunday 14th January, 9:30am – 3pm

For aspiring Dentists: FREE LIVE VIRTUAL Get Into Dentistry conference dates:
Sunday 28th January, 9:30am – 3pm

Students and parents can register for free at this link:
Medicine: https://medicmentor.org/get-into-medicine-ucas-conference/
Dentistry: https://dental-mentor.org/get-into-dentistry-ucas-conference/

All aspiring doctors and dentists in years 10-12 / S3-S5 / NI11-13 are invited to register.

These conferences offer tailored advice for medicine and dentistry, covering a range of crucial topics:

– Tactically choosing universities
– Personal statements
– UCAT
– Medical & Dental school interview skills
– Medical Leadership Programmes
– Awards Programmes
– Extracurricular activities
– Work experience
– Building a CV
– Applying for scholarships

Medical Registration Link: https://airtable.com/appgXnyzN5ZD9Iwk6/shry7MZYtt3MGPjvO
Dental Registration Link: https://airtable.com/appgXnyzN5ZD9Iwk6/shrBuiR7SBAcC19kE

 

Oaklands College Open Evenings – February 2024

Please find below some information on upcoming open evenings which are being held at both our St Albans and Welwyn Garden City campuses in February.

The Welwyn Garden City Campus event is being held on the 6th February 5pm-8pm and the St Albans campus event is being held on the 8th February 5pm-8pm.

Oaklands College organises open events for prospective students to explore their campuses, meet the faculty, and learn about the courses offered. Different courses are available at different campuses, so it’s important to visit the college’s website and register for your preferred areas before booking an open event. This will help you make the most out of your visit and gather all the necessary information to make an informed decision.

Nativity 2023

10th January 2024Alexandra Green

We are delighted to be able to share with you Reception’s wonderful performance of ‘The Twinkly Nativity!’. This will be available for you to download until the 19th. We hope you enjoy watching it with your family!

Nativity link

Musical News – December 2023

21st December 2023Heather Morgan

What an amazing term it has been! Full of music and celebration!

Thank you for all of the ongoing support - communicating with us, celebrating our concerts, celebrating your students, following along with us on this journey! You are a valued part of Team Music!

Merry Christmas from Team Music, and we'll see you in 2024 for much more music!

Secondary Carol Service

Featuring the Simon Balle Concert Band, Senior Strings, Secondary Choir, Chamber Choir and Saxidentals.

The Simon Balle Community were lucky to enjoy Carol Services featuring Secondary Musicians this week - what a way to count down to Christmas!

Secondary musicians performed fantastically, what a way to finish 2023.

 

Click in the top right corner for more videos

Larch Carol Service

On Tuesday Evening, we enjoyed our Primary Carol Service, featuring the Larch String Orchestra, Larch Wind and Brass Ensemble, Year 2-3 Choir & Year 4-6 Choir.

It was incredible to see so many Primary students involved and celebrated!

We look forward to more Larch Music Celebration in 2024!

Singing Recital Evening

On Wednesday, we enjoyed performances from Ms Kemp's students!

It was a brilliant evening of plenty variety from musical theatre to metal to pop!

Please enjoy the videos here -

Click in the top right corner for more videos

Take Note: Winter Celebration

Take Note held their annual Winter Celebration on Saturday to start off the Christmas period, it was an incredible evening with a variety of music, and of course mince pies!

To find out more about Take Note - please click here for this link.

Our Spring Term dates can be found here:

What’s On

We are on Instagram

We are one all-through musical school. It is an honour to see each musician begin their musical journey and grow during their time with Simon Balle Music. We have so many incredible musicians. We are Team Music.
#youdontgetthisanywhereelse #simonballemusic #simonballeallthroughschool #hertford #musiceducation #teammusic

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We are one all-through musical school. It is an honour to see each musician begin their musical journey and grow during their time with Simon Balle Music. We have so many incredible musicians. We are Team Music. #youdontgetthisanywhereelse #simonballemusic #simonballeallthroughschool #hertford #musiceducation #teammusic

Tonight at St Andrew`s Church in Hertford. Do come along to hear the wonderful Take Note in concert. Take Note are our Community Choir.
#communitychoir #hertford #simonballeallthroughschool #simonballemusic #hertfordshire

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Tonight at St Andrew's Church in Hertford. Do come along to hear the wonderful Take Note in concert. Take Note are our Community Choir. #communitychoir #hertford #simonballeallthroughschool #simonballemusic #hertfordshire

The Simon Balle Big Band at the Hertford Christmas Lights Switch On – such fun!

#music #simonballemusic #simonballeallthroughschool #music #teammusic

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The Simon Balle Big Band at the Hertford Christmas Lights Switch On – such fun! #music #simonballemusic #simonballeallthroughschool #music #teammusic

December Sports Round Up

20th December 2023Daire Brennan
It’s been quite an action packed month of sport with our second edition of Inter-House Sport taking place as well as competitions in Swimming, Football, Netball, Rugby and Netball. Please see below for an in depth look.

Inter-House Sport

Last week saw our second inter house sport event of the year with fantastic levels of play in both the football and netball competitions across year 7-10 groups. Students enjoyed competing for their houses with many students writing out detailed team sheets and tactics ahead of each day. See the results on the link below and we look forward to our next inter house event in the spring term!

Inter-House Sports_ Round 2

Extra-curricular programme

Please see below our extra-curricular sports programme for the upcoming Spring term. Other than swim club, students can attend on the day without signing up. You will also notice that we have an action packed Saturday fixture football card. Our key events in Athletics are the District Sportshall Athletics which we host. This will include around 20-25 of our Year 9 & 10 sports leaders running the event at Wodson, this will be a great experience for our students as well as the opportunity gain vital employability skills in the process. We also look forward to the District Indoor Athletics Championships on Monday 22nd January, where we will be attending with a strong team of Year 7-11 students. Lots to look forward too and please visit the sports pages for more information on upcoming fixtures – https://www.simonballe.herts.sch.uk/sport/

Football

Year 7 Boys went through to the last 32 of the National Cup. They were able to hold up against a very strong Woodlands academy side with the first 40 minutes of the game being end to end. Max F was then able to finally beat their keeper with 2 fantastic strikes at goal leading to a final result of 2-0. Now looking forward to the 6th round in the new year where we face one of either St Ivo’s or Northampton school for Boys.

The U14 girls played the third round of the county cup against a very tough side Ridgeway Academy. The girls conceded early on in the game but battled hard in the weather conditions to bring it to 2-2 at half time with goals from Emily and Tilly. With it all to play for in the second half the girls managed to get a last minute goal by Aidan to bring the game to 3-3. Unfortunately the girls lost 3-5 on penalties, but it was a performance to be proud of. We look forward to the District cup in the new year.

Y7 Girls before their County Cup game earlier this month

The Year 11 boy’s have had a fantastic start to the season showing real potential within the national cup however we came up against a very strong side from Kingsford Community School. After an 80 minute battle it only came down to 1 goal against us from a well drilled side. In the final minutes of the game we applied the pressure and had plenty of opportunities to equalise however their defensive line was very strong and able to hold us out. The side are now looking forward to the District cup starting in the new year. 

Senior Boys victory

The senior boys football team are through to the quarter final of the county cup after beating Tring School 4-1. The whole team played really well but a special mention has to go to Ellis M for his hat trick from centre midfield. The other goal scored by Alfie P on his debut for the Senior team. The quarter final will be after Christmas against either Merchant Taylors or Beaumont school. 

Hockey news

Hockey training has been well attended with the addition of boys training. We are looking forward to the boys fixtures beginning after Christmas and entering the county tournament again at the end of January.

Netball News

The year 8s have been working hard at training despite the cold, wet afternoons. The A team have been competing in the county cup and had a tough semi-final game against Presdales. The team showed excellent resilience and determination against the strong side. There were moments of brilliance in the through court attack, demonstrating good speed and timing. However it was an unfortunate loss which meant we were knocked out of the country cup league. The A and B team also played Presdales again in a friendly fixture. The A team showed excellent progression and narrowed the gap in the score line compared to the previous game. Maya T showed excellent composure and dominance in attack. The B team had a closely contested game. It was fantastic to see Lila T play GD and get numerous interceptions and tips, despite playing out of position.

We have had to rearrange our friendly fixture against Chauncy so we look forward to taking them on in the new year.

Rugby News

Over the past month Year 7 & Year 8 teams have performed very well on a weekly basis. 

Last week both teams played against Haileybury College, with the Year 7 team winning convincingly, this being their 4th consecutive victory and now look forward to Herts and District competitions during the Spring term.

The Year 8 team came back from 4 tries to nil at half time to draw the game 20-20, with tries from Jack T, Maxwell R (2) & Ben H. It was a great performance from the team and a great end to their school rugby season. 

Swimming News

We had our first friendly gala of this academic year last Friday and it was great to see some excellent swimming across the year groups from our Simon Balle students. 

There were some excellent individual swims; Sadie won her freestyle and butterfly races. Toby won his butterfly race. Zara won her butterfly race and Rex won his butterfly event too. We had some 2nds in breaststroke and backstroke for Willow, Matilda in breaststroke, Lilia in breaststroke. 

The year 9/10 girls team won their freestyle relay and the senior team won the medley relay with the year 7 and 8 girls and boys teams both coming 2nd. The teams were made up of the following students, a massive well done to you all:

Rex, Alfie, Owen, Emily, Lilia, Frez, Annabel, Olly, Harry, Charlie, Toby, Zara, Abi, Willow, Matilda, Sadie.  We have the District galas coming up in March! 

Swimming club for all abilities is on Monday mornings during term time 7:40am – please see Mrs Castle if you would like to attend. 

Finally we wish you all a happy Christmas from the PE & Sport Department and we look forward to a sporting 2024.

Newsletter 7

15th December 2023David Ayres

It’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas…

It has been incredible to see our community in action in support of one another at this very special time of the year. From the most inspiring Reception nativity performance, to our sixth form leaders supporting musicians and readers in preparation for our Carol services: so many Simon Balle values from patience, kindness, compassion, responsibility and resilience are evident. The all-through shines where all years combine, from the Herts Young homeless Santa Dash (Year 4 and sixth form); the Frost Fair with leadership evident from Year 6 sports leaders to sixth form business students; donations of gifts to future Living and goods to the food bank; to our raising of over £1,700 for Save the Children through Christmas jumper day; and to the traditions of this festive season shared further as we move into the last week of term – including Christmas lunches. We believe passionately that students will achieve great things – academically and in the widest sense – when they belong to our community; evidence of this is in abundance this fortnight.

A huge thank you to all students for their dedication with assessments at this time of year, particularly to our Year 11 students during mocks and our Year 13 students in preparation.  With students in all year groups, Year 1+, following assessments we will be focussing on the quality of the feedback we give – research shows the importance of formative feedback so that students can see areas to now target where there are gaps in knowledge, or areas to develop skills, or misconceptions to be identified and resolved. It is much more important that we support students to understand these – as these will lead to future gains – rather than focussing on raw scores or grades alone. Any questions, do stay closely in contact with us. 

As you read the newsletter below, you will see that once again there is so much to celebrate – from Inter-house sports, to sixth form internal and external applicants for September, and we thank you for your parental partnership with online and in person parents’ evenings, as well as your support for many enrichment trips and events: including Year 4 Narnia evening, Year 12 Art trip, secondary theatre trip to the Mousetrap and the theatre coming to us in the Larch (Jack and the beanstalk). A very exciting Year 10 STEM day is still to come next week. 

And finally, at the end of this first team of headship, Mr Moss and I would like to thank you all for your continued support to ensure that we are all deeply proud of our all-through school. It is a special place to work and to learn – and it is a privilege to lead our dedicated and specialist staff team to motivate and support your incredible young people. Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas, and a happy and healthy new year when it comes.

PE News

A full round up of this term’s sporting news will be published next week on the Sports blog, but we’ve included some photos of this week’s inter-house competition and a brief taster of what’s been happening.

 

This week both Year 7 Boys and Year 8 Boys teams played against Haileybury College, with the Year 7 team winning convincingly and the Year 8 team coming back from 4 tries to nil at half time to drawing the game. Both girls and boys football teams have had cup action, with the Y7 boys going through to the last 32 of the national cup, and the senior boys reaching the quarter finals of the Hertfordshire cup.

Pedagogy portal

Every academic year we work closely with the Alban Teaching School Hub and host trainee teachers who want to join our wonderful profession. If you are interested in teacher training or even want to know a little more; do get in touch with the school or the Alban TSH. This week’s portal contains the views of a current trainee and their journey and pedagogy practice so far, whilst training at Simon Balle. We hope it inspires you to get in touch and perhaps use the Alban TSH to train at Simon Balle All-through School. 

 https://www.simonballe.herts.sch.uk/pedagogy-portal-train-to-teach/ ‎

Sixth Form practice interviews

Sixth Form enrichment over the past few weeks has focused on interview techniques for Year 12 students. It has been great to see so many young people supporting each other as they reflect on their own skills and experiences. In preparation for these mock interviews, students were asked to research an employer and prepare their CVs as well as responses to interview questions. We were lucky to be supported by over 20 fantastic local employers, who willingly gave up their time to support our students with their career development.

“Gaining real world interview experience was so useful. The verbal feedback from my employer was so helpful. He gave me a number of targets to help strengthen my CV and future applications.” Sam, Year 12

Library News

It has been a busy term in the Simon Balle libraries, culminating with today’s Jólabókaflóð (Book Flood) and Christmas Bingo. You can read more about all the events that have been taking place by visiting the Library Blog.

Spotlight on Phase Three

Over the last few weeks, Year 5 have been designing their Christmas cushions and have just started to create them in class. They have all shown resilience with their sewing skills and creativity with their designs. 

In English, Year 6 have been enjoying reading Skelling and applying their skills of persuasion by writing an advertisement to sell houses. Last week they impressed us with their incredible poems based on the main character.

PSA News

The Frost Fair was enjoyed by many visitors, and thanks to the incredible support from our school community, it is estimated that we raised an outstanding £8230! Funds raised will support both phases of the school. A huge shoutout to our dedicated students who selflessly volunteered their time to make this event unforgettable. Special thanks to Chirp, shystudio, and Edwins for their fantastic sponsorships, and a heartfelt gratitude to Mrs. Major for her generous donation.

Unwanted gift appeal

‘Tis the season of giving, and while we appreciate the love and thoughtfulness behind all the festive gifts, we’re embracing a fun twist this year! If you find yourself with an unwanted Christmas gift that’s been waiting for a new home, we’d be absolutely delighted to take it off your hands. Your generosity will fuel our exciting plans for prizes, raffles, and PSA fundraising endeavours in the upcoming year. Drop off your donations at either school office, marked “FAO SBPSA.”

Larch UV Party

Get ready to glow, Larch families!  Tickets for the much-anticipated UV Party for years 1 to 6 are now on sale via the PSA website! To join the neon fun, hop onto the website and make sure to register then patiently await admin approval to complete your checkout, if you are new to the website. Don’t miss out on this luminous extravaganza – tickets will be on sale until Friday January 12th. Get your glow on, Larch! See the UV Party Poster here

Support for families

A coffee morning is being held on Monday 15th January by SPACE for parents with children who have a diagnosis of ASD or ADHD or are on the pathway to a diagnosis. They are a local charity who offer support to families who are neurodiverse. If you would like to attend please contact vivashk@simonballe.herts.sch.uk to reserve your place. You can read more about this on the county website, or watch a summary of the information on YouTube. 

Family Lives are delivering a range of online support for families living in Hertfordshire. Please take a look at their Facebook page and the two flyers for more information.

Jedidiah on Fore street is a wonderful free fresh food pantry, helping the people of Hertford who are feeling the cost of living crisis to fill their fridges and feed themselves and their families. The pantry opens every week day from 12-1pm and all are welcome to come along and help themselves to the array of fresh food donated by our local supermarkets.

Careers News

Please click here for our latest careers opportunities blog. This edition includes links to the New Unifrog online courses (available to all students in Y7 – 13). Click here to access the new careers section on the school website which includes:

  • Links for students and parents
  • Careerometer and Skillometer to help students explore different careers
  • Links to Local Market Information
  • And many other useful resources

Holocaust memorial Day visit to St Albans Cathedral.

Holocaust Memorial Day is commemorated nationally on 27th January 2024. This year we have been lucky enough to secure 50 tickets to the St Albans commemorative event on Tuesday 30th January. The trip will take place in the afternoon and students will be returning home to school around 4.30. 

This is a fantastic opportunity where students will be able take part in a number of workshops focused around the Holocaust and the events that preceded it. The highlight of the visit will be to listen to a presentation from a Holocaust survivor and then have an opportunity to partake in a Q&A session. This trip is currently open to Y9, 11 and 13 and has proved very popular. We do however still have 6 spaces still available. The trip costs £13. If you would like further information on the trip then please contact Mrs Page on pages@simonballe.herts.sch.uk who will be able to give you more information and arrange payment. 

Don’t forget!

We break up for the Christmas holidays at 12.00pm on Thursday 21st December. We return to school at normal time on Monday 8th January.

Between now and Christmas

There are still a few events taking place between now and the end of term:

  • All week: further work is being done on the changing rooms, so secondary students need to come into school wearing PE kit on the days they have PE (apart from Y7 and 8 on Tuesday 19th).
  • Monday 18th December: Y8 STEM day (drones)
  • Monday 18th December: Secondary carol service, All Saints Church, 1900-2000
  • Tuesday 19th December: Y7, 8 and 12 visit All Saints for the carol service in the morning (full school uniform required). Secondary Christmas Dinner (there will be no other food service at break or lunch, so those that have not bought a ticket for the Christmas lunch will need to bring a packed lunch)
  • Tuesday 19th December: Larch carol service, All Saints Church, 1800-1900
  • Wednesday 20th December: Larch students visit All Saints Church for the carol service in the morning. Y10 Stem day (rockets)

After Christmas

  • Monday 8th January: Y11 Business trip information evening, 1800, Main Hall
  • Wednesday 10th January: Sixth Form History and Politics Berlin trip information evening, 1800, Main Hall
  • Wednesday 10th January: Y6 SATs information evening, 1800, Larch Hall
  • Tuesday 16th January: Y6 STEM day (experiments)
  • Wednesday 17th January: Y11 Tate Modern trip
  • Tuesday 23rd January: Y11 parents evening (face to face)
  • Friday 26th January: PSA UV Party after school – details to follow
  • Thursday 15th February: Y4 Roman Britain Workshop

Wishing everyone in our community a merry Christmas and a happy new year.

Yours sincerely,

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

Pedagogy Portal – Train to Teach

15th December 2023Ian Finch

Train to Teach – Initial Teacher Training at Simon Balle

“Approaching the start of my training was definitely something that had me very nervous, but the moment it began almost all of those nerves melted away. You learn so many interesting new methods and techniques to bring forward to a class and get the opportunity to really develop your own style of teaching within an environment where you receive constant constructive and useful feedback – as well as being supported in every aspect you could need.

On the ‘Schools Direct’ route am I on with the Alban Federation, I am lucky enough to be provided with a rich curriculum every Wednesday which helps me understand the science of learning and informs my practice. I follow up this with conversations and targets with my School Mentor in my weekly meetings.  

While the process is busy and you need to put a lot of hard work into the training, it always feels rewarding and satisfying to either see your plans come to success, or lay the foundations for your own development to improving as a teacher. I have thoroughly enjoyed my training so far and would definitely recommend it to others considering this path – especially within a school like this.”

Current Trainee Teacher at SBAS 2023/24

Please do visit the Alban Teaching School Hub and check out some great Train to Teach webinars.

Events

 

 

Library News #3

13th December 2023Rosemary Iles

Library News

It has been a busy term in the Simon Balle libraries. Well done to all students who have joined in with library events and activities and thank you to the Larch and secondary school library ambassadors for all their help this term.

Speakers’ Corner

Well done to everyone who has presented for Speakers’ Corner this term. We have had a variety of topics from transport and wildlife to the secret listeners of World War 2 and a review of Avatar The Last Airbender. Speakers’ Corner takes place in the secondary library at lunchtime on Thursdays. If you are in the secondary school and would like to do a Speakers’ Corner next term, please speak to Miss Iles.

Well-being Wednesday puzzlers

The puzzle team has been busy. We have completed seven 1000 piece puzzles this term. Well done team! We are now working on a Christmas puzzle.

If you have any suitable 1000 piece (or smaller) puzzles at home that you would like to donate to the school library, please drop them off at the secondary reception.

Music Monday

Well done to Ryan, Ziva, Naomi, Olive, Lucas, Benjamin, Ethan, Holly, Isabel, Amelia, Jamie and William for playing in the library this term for Music Monday.

Lunchtime piano concert

Well done to Ethan, Seren , Sophie, Dominic, Zoe, Lucas, George, Oliver, Ziva, Ethan, Vanessa, Benjamin, Hector, Sylvie, Orson, Edward, Lola, and Holly for their piano playing for the lunchtime piano concert this term.

Poetry Writing Competition certificates – A visit from Alice Hemming

The author Alice Hemming came into school to hand out certificates and prizes to the winners and runners-up of the poetry writing competition in year group assemblies.

Book Battles

Book Battles takes place on the 1st Wednesday of the month. Activities this term have included a very competitive duck race and some imaginative charades. We finished off the term with the very serious task of returning the tail to the Christmas donkey and the antlers to the moose. 

Next term, the first Book Battles will be on Wednesday 10th January.

Larch students’ visit to the secondary school library 

Some students from years 5 and 6 have been visiting the secondary school library and choosing new books to read.

Non-fiction November

Well done to everyone who read non fiction for Non-fiction November. The students who scored the most house points for Non-fiction November were Alisha, Summer, Vanessa and James and the record for the most Non-fiction November house points goes to Summer. Well done!

Book fair in the Larch library

From Monday 4th to Thursday 7th December we had the Travelling Books book fair in the Larch library. The fair has raised some money for the school which we can now spend on new library books. Thank you to the staff who helped out at the fair and well done to everyone who bought books.

FREE books for our school with Britannica Magazine!

We can benefit from getting £200 worth of FREE non-fiction books for our school library if we get 10 or more parents to sign up to any of Britannica’s subscription plans at www.whatonearth.co.uk which start at just £24.99 for six months. 

Parents/carers can then enter the code SIMONBALLE in the discount code box at the online check out at www.whatonearth.co.uk. Once Britannica  receives 10 orders from parents/carers using this unique school code they will send a £200 book voucher to the school.  

Everyone who signs up also gets a FREE Britannica Encyclopaedia worth £25.

 

Careers Opportunities 4

12th December 2023Ciaran Prendergast

Gonville and Caius Medical Society Access Day – Y10/11/12

This year, Gonville and Caius Medical Society will be running an Access Day on 20th January from 10:00 through to the late afternoon. This day intends to introduce students to Medicine at Cambridge, with a range of different events running throughout the day. All these events will be held online, and students will need to register their interest if they wish to be considered for a place. Each session will last about 45 minutes and will give a comprehensive overview/insight into Medicine at Cambridge.

Overview of sessions running:

–          Medicine at Cambridge Talk

–          Personal Statements for Medicine Talk

–          Interview talk (with general tips for medical school interviews)

–          Admissions Assessments Talk

–          Taster Lecture from Dr Fraser (Caius’ Director of Studies in Medicine)

–          Q&A session with current undergraduate students

–          Mock small group teaching session

To register interest, students must fill in the following form by midday on 8th January 2024. We expect that this will be a highly subscribed event, and as such cannot guarantee all students a place on the Access Day. Students can expect to hear the outcome of their application by 12th January.

Register of Interest: https://cambridge.eu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3JzUti1wQbeHZKm

This opportunity is open to students from Years 10-12.

 

We are pleased to share with you that the BAM UK Technical Apprenticeship Vacancy for 2024 is now open!

We are recruiting for approximately 50-60 new people to join us in Sept 2024. These include:-

Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Building Services Engineering
Scotland Graduate apprenticeships (Civil Engineering & Quantity Surveying)
Digital Engineering (Level 3 Programme)
All 3 adverts are visible here – apprenticeship 2024 job openings at BAM (bamcareers.com)

Technical programme next steps:

Roles will close on the 16th of Feb after National Apprenticeship week and Scotland will close 15th of March after Scottish Apprenticeship week. B
The Early Careers team will complete the first review of applications during this time.
Interviews and assessment centres will follow in March and April with support from the business with a view to offer in May.

 

Job of the week – MyPath:

https://www.mypathcareersuk.com/job-of-the-week

Excellent resource for students to explore a wide range of different careers

 

Fix Auto Apprenticeships – Year 11 and Sixth :

Fix Auto UK are are looking for motivated, passionate candidates looking for an exciting, prosperous career in an essential industry. This is a full-time role with guaranteed employment on completion of your apprenticeship. You will be earning while you learn – earn money and gain valuable skills enhancing your future career opportunities with personal support throughout. These fantastic opportunities are
open to EVERYONE.

We are recruiting for technical and non-technical apprentice roles within the industry.

Apprenticeships include:

Multiskilled Accident Repair Technician (Paint, Panel and MET) (Level 3)
Vehicle Damage Paint Technician (Level 3)
Vehicle Damage Panel Technician (Level 3)
Vehicle Damage Mechanical, Electrical and Trim Technician (Level 3)
Parts Advisor (Level 2/3)

Fix Auto UK Apprentice Programme run a Pre-Employment Programme (PEP) to ensure that we find “perfect candidates”. PEP aims to ensure that we uncover motivated, passionate and employment ready young people, but also to make sure you feel this is absolutely the right career destination for you. By completing the PEP, you will have a great understanding of the apprenticeship role, the industry and your potential future employer.

What next?
If you would like more information or you are interested in taking the first steps into a prosperous,rewarding career please email jwatson@fixauto.co.uk. We will then be in touch with more information about Apprenticeships in your area!

Spotlight Opportunity: Discover Apprenticeships with Virgin Media O2!

Speakers for Schools: Sign up to our #NAW virtual workshop and empower your students to discover how they can propel their career with a Virgin Media O2 apprenticeship! With new apprenticeships being released all year round, the variety available is wider than ever. Whether your students want to be out and about helping customers, diving into the data that drives the business, or connecting communities through network expansion, there’s something for everyone. So join us on 8th February at 10am to meet current Apprentices and the Virgin Media O2 Future Careers team! Book on a group/class of students here: https://www.speakersforschools.org/discovery-workshop/discover-virgin-media-o2-apprenticeships-virgin-media-o2/

 

Featured Inspiration Broadcast

Speakers for Schools: Join us on Thursday 11th January at 2-2:45pm to hear about Dr. Veena Aggarwal’s journey as a GP Registrar and her dedication to lessening the NHS’ environmental impact. Veena has worked with the National Greener NHS team and dedicates time to educating fellow GP trainees, contributing to the Greener Practice network and promoting sustainable primary care. Explore how she combines her role with a passion for a green, more sustainable healthcare future. Register a group or cohort of students here: https://forms.office.com/e/AEH8arHe1j

 

Year 12 Students -University residential opportunity for STEM subjects

The Engineering Development Trust are still accepting applications for the Residential Insight into University Course but these will be closing on 31st January 2024. This is a fantastic opportunity for students in Year 12-S5/S6 to experience STEM studies at university and the career opportunities that these subjects can lead to. This course is recommended on the UCAS website as a tool to prepare students for higher education to make their application stand out.

Click here for more information

 

Unifrog – Courses

Unifrog have added a new tool to their website called ‘Courses’ – these are online courses you can complete to further your knowledge and understanding in a particular area. Current courses include (there are also many more online):

  • The psychology behind memory
  • How to start a business
  • An introduction to film making
  • Books that changed the world

If you are interested in starting a Unifrog online course, just log into your Unifrog account (all students Y7 – 13 have an account linked to your simon balle email address) and access the ‘Courses’ tool on your homepage.

Fully funded – virtual work experience

Speakers for schools are offering a wide range of virtual work experience opportunities – click here for further information

Featured Inspiration Broadcast: Speakers for Schools – Polar Marine Biologist

Join us on Thursday 14th December at 2-2:45pm to hear from Professor Lloyd Peck, polar marine biologist, and explore the wonders of icy ecosystems, cutting-edge research, and the thrill of discovery. Don’t miss this chance to have a peek at the science and hear about marine biology as a career! Register a group or cohort of students here: https://forms.office.com/e/ceGkWFyLFp

Spotlight Opportunity: Boots Camp is back!

I am excited to announce that we are working with Boots UK again, bringing back the National Boots Camp with another virtual progressive programme highlighting the different careers within Boots! Check out the attached flyer, as well as the links below, for more information!

▶ Watch this video to hear from students who took part in the last programme

📅 Save the date! 8 virtual sessions between 10th January – 13th March after school on Wednesdays from 3:30-5pm.

🔗 Follow and share this link for more information and to get involved!