The Darrick Wood Way
Parent Bulletin
“Let us remember: One book, one pen, one child and one teacher can change the world”
– Malala Yousafzai –
Message from the Head Teacher
As we move into the final two weeks of term, I draw your attention to the email sent to all parents on Wednesday regarding arrangements for the end of term. For your convenience, these are provided again below. I hope you enjoy reading through the rest of this week’s Parent Bulletin. The term has flown by and the holidays will be upon us soon, but before then we have a lot going on and I will write to you again before the term is out.
Last day of term (Friday, 20th December 2024)
On the last day of term, students will attend school in full school uniform as usual by 8.35am. They will attend all lessons until the end of Period 3 (12.15pm).
- Students in the Sixth Form will leave the site directly after Period 3.
- After Period 3, students in Years 7-11 will return to Form Rooms with their Form Tutors. They will be dismissed by their AC/AAC from 12.25pm.
As we move into the festive period, we have much planned to celebrate and for students to get involved with. The Student Leadership Council has been busy arranging a Darrick Wood Festive Week starting Monday, 9th December. They have lots of fun activities planned that are being promoted in assemblies this week.
There will also be the opportunity to raise funds for Save the Children through Christmas Jumper Day on Thursday, 12th December. On this day, students will be able to wear a Christmas jumper or something sparkly in place of an item of uniform, or a Christmas tie or socks etc. Donations of £1 or more can be made on Parent Pay. We hope you will be able to give generously to this worthy cause.
On Thursday, 19th December the Music Department will be hosting our Christmas Concert in the Main Hall from 7pm. If previous years are anything to go by, I know this will be something not to miss.
Reminder
We have recently noted an increase in parents/carers attempting to pick up or drop off their children on the School site. We cannot accommodate this and there are times when it has become so congested there is a risk to safety. We understand that for a minority of students this is necessary, either temporarily due to injury, or by agreement because of their disability. We ask that parents/carers liaise with our Reception/Medical/First Aid staff so that we can discuss how we can help.
We would also request that parents/carers do not come onto the School site to pick up from an after school club. Please arrange a suitable location to pick up from outside the School. We have recently experienced drivers coming on to the site after school hours, not parking in a marked bay, using our driveway to reverse or turn and again causing issues of safety for students and staff. We are very grateful to everyone for their understanding on these matters.
Attendance Focus
94.5%
Form Attendance
Congratulations to 7XB, 8YH, 9YP, 10YD and 11YC for excellent punctuality to school and lessons this year.
Most improved attendance this week is Year 7, closely followed by Year 9.
Reading Recommendations
Click below for details
Previous Bulletins
Upcoming Events
9/12/2024-13/12/2024 – Festive Week (see details below)
The Creative Writing Club has re-started on Tuesdays in En6 from 1:30. All students with an interest in writing are welcome. Mentored by Year 12 Shubhan and hosted by Ms Vos.
20/12/2024 – End of term
06/01/2025 – Start of spring term
Useful Links
Highlights of the fortnight
The student led item in main school assembly last week was presented by Olivia, Georgia-Mae, Toby, Tommy and Rosie who spoke about the radio play they have been involved with for DWS Audio. We also had the pleasure of hearing an episode as well. They not only shared their experiences of this but also encouraged others to join in and take part Friday lunchtimes in EN10.
Christmas Card Competition
The Art Department would like to say well done to everyone in Year 7 in our annual Christmas Card Competition. The standard of entries was high and so Dr Airey had a difficult decision in choosing a winner. Congratulations to the winner and the second and third place entries.
1st Place – Emmy, 7XS
2nd Place – Maddie, 7XB
3rd Place – Sam, 7YH
Eco Schools Green Flag Award
The Eco Committee have been working incredibly hard in supporting our three main focus areas this year; Litter, School Grounds and Energy. This half term we have started conducting weekly litter picks with each year group. Students have worked collaboratively to cover as much of the school site as possible.
During the month of November, we as a school took part in the ‘Cut your Carbon’ initiative. We are currently collating the results and will share the impact our community has had in a future bulletin. We wish to thank all families for their support with the six challenges and we hope you enjoyed them! As we approach the festive period, the Eco Committee wishes to remind our families of the importance of reusing and recycling. Reusing and recycling reduces the carbon footprint and energy required to create new products. Can anything be reused for a different purpose? Can boxes, wrapping paper and Christmas cards be recycled? Do you dispose of your Christmas tree in an environmentally responsible way? If you haven’t yet purchased your tree, could you rent one that is then replanted for use the following year? Everyone has the responsibility to make small differences to have a greater impact on our environment.
The Eco Committee will formally meet again next week to start creating the action plan for the rest of the academic year.
Pathways 2024
On the evening of Thursday, 28th November, we proudly hosted our Pathways Careers Fair, welcoming over 500 students and their parents/carers from Years 10 to 13. The evening was a resounding success, showcasing a wealth of opportunities to inspire future pathways for our young people.
The event featured more than 40 exhibitors, including representatives from local and international organisations, universities, and colleges. Spread across both of our Dining Halls, exhibitors provided invaluable insights into diverse career pathways, covering industries ranging from healthcare, law, finance and engineering to creative arts, technology and aviation. Attendees had access to a wide array of information on apprenticeships, employment, training, and further and higher education, empowering them to make more informed post-16 and post-18 decisions.
Our students impressed exhibitors with their curiosity, enthusiasm, and engagement. Many organisations praised the thoughtful questions posed by students and the meaningful conversations that took place throughout the evening.
Highlights included interactive activities and demonstrations such as learning CPR and lifesaving skills, exploring professional tools and equipment used in every day roles, and collecting useful materials and merchandise to continue discussions at home.
We extend our thanks to all exhibitors, students, families, and staff who contributed to the success of this inspiring event.
Criminology Conference
The Shaftsbury Theatre, usual home of the West End musical, ‘Mrs Doubtfire’, recently gave way to host a criminology conference aimed at A level students. A group of 17, mainly Sociology students, accompanied by Miss Brice and Mr Read, attended the event. There were a range of speakers, including criminologists who delved into the world of crime and deviance – from ethnographic research to the workings of the criminal justice system. Students also listened to two speakers who had both previously served prison sentences, Justin Rollins, who was a member of an infamous, graffiti gang, and Marisa Merico, ‘The Mafia Princess’, who grew up involved in the Italian mafia; reassuringly both are now fully reformed and integrated back into society.
Dr Lyndsey Harris gave a thought-provoking talk about the complexities of domestic violence cases within the criminal justice system – and the processes that victims to go through in order for cases to be heard. This was followed by a lecture from Dr Antony Ellis who explored the public’s fascination with the crime of murder, particularly high-profile cases and serial killers (which thankfully are extremely rare). Marisa Merico, talked about her life growing up as the daughter of an Italian mafia boss, which she has in her narrated in her book, ‘The Mafia Princess’ – also dramatically interpreted in the Prime Video series, ‘Bang, Bang, Baby’.
In the afternoon, students listened to and interacted with Professor Zoe Walkington who tested student’s skill at spotting a liar, which, as it turns out, very few people in the world are actually good at!
Perhaps the most emotive and inspiring talk came from Justin Rollins. He talked about his very traumatic childhood and the neglect and abuse he suffered, and how he became involved in graffitiing and joining a criminal gang, which led to periods of violence, fear and paranoia. He discussed his times spent in a young offenders’ institution and his ongoing issues with his mental health and his diagnosis of complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
The conference showed students how often abstract theoretical views learned in the classroom are relevant to contemporary society. The students said they really enjoyed the event; they were impeccably behaved and excellent ambassadors for DWS.
Magdalene College
At the end of last half term a group of Year 11 students had the opportunity to visit Magdalene College, Cambridge. The day started with a very informative talk from the Schools Liaison Officer on making subject choices and the process of applying to study at Cambridge. This included the importance of engaging with their subject beyond the classroom through super-curricular activities, such as reading articles, watching documentaries and visiting exhibitions. The wonderful Student Ambassadors then led a tour of the College, including the beautiful 16th century Hall, riverside gardens and magnificent modern library.
After a lunch that got excellent reviews from the group, there was a walking tour of the historic centre of the city, which gave a sense of what it is like to live in Cambridge, and the chance to see some of the other colleges that together comprise the University. This was followed by a Q&A with some of Magdalene’s very friendly undergraduates, who shared their experiences of applying to Cambridge and student life.
Before leaving, the group was welcomed to the Master’s Lodge by the Master of the College and his family, including a very warm greeting from the resident spaniel. The students saw what a community Magdalene is, and asked the Master and JCR President a wide range of excellent questions. The group returned to school informed, motivated and inspired.
Curriculum Showcase
The Autumn term has been very busy for the Drama Department. Not only did 65 students perform superbly in this year’s production of ‘The Little Mermaid’ but various other students supported backstage and as Front of House. Preparations are already underway with regards to planning next year’s production and we cannot wait.
Year 9
22 students are working towards their Arts Award Bronze journey and exploring someone who inspires them within the Arts Industry – this could be anyone both past and present within the industry including and not limited to actors, musicians, designers, artists or directors. Students were given the opportunity to complete this award as an extra-curricular opportunity and upon competition of the Award, they will receive a level 1 qualification. If your child is currently in Year 9 and would still like to take part, then please contact Mrs Berry.
Year 11 & 13
Students have also now completed their Component 1 Devised performances (this counts towards 40% of their final grade) and are in the final stages of completing their coursework portfolio that also contributes towards this Component. The practical examinations for this Component are earlier than usual to allow for more time for the students to prepare for their mock written examinations which are currently taking place over the next few weeks. The commitment and dedication shown by all students for their practical pieces was exceptional this year. In the New Year they will begin their final Component 2 scripted performances (this counts towards 20% of their final grade) and we look forward to seeing the final pieces.
Year 12
Students are currently exploring and rehearsing ‘Brain Play’ as part of this year’s National Connections Festival in partnership with the National Theatre. This is the second time that our school has been selected to take part in the Festival, but sadly due to Covid, we were unable to fully take part and perform at our Partner Theatre. It is therefore very exciting, that we have once again, been selected to take part. The Year 12 students are not only performing in the play, but they are also working collaboratively to direct our ensemble which comprises of 14 students who auditioned across year’s 8, 9 and 10 during after school rehearsals. This is a wonderful opportunity for our Year 12 students to develop their leadership skills as well as their performance and design/technical skills as they also take on the responsibility for staging the play. The students will be performing the play at school in February and then perform at the Trinity Theatre, Tunbridge Wells in April. We will be sharing details of how you can purchase tickets and attend both events in the New Year.
LAMDA
In November, 7 students completed their LAMDA examinations in either Acting or Public Speaking. All of the students involved did exceptionally well achieving Distinctions. Congratulations to Kanishka, Shayla, Sanibel, Lilly, Evie, Adam and Ross. If your child would like to take LAMDA examinations, then please contact Kelly Woods at Articul82022@outlook.com
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
International Day of Persons with Disabilities
This day celebrates the achievements and contributions of people with disabilities while raising awareness of the barriers they continue to face. It is a time to reaffirm our commitment to accessibility, inclusion, and understanding in all areas of life.
At Darrick Wood School, we celebrate diversity in all its forms and actively work to ensure that our school environment supports the needs and talents of every individual. We encourage our students to embrace the values of empathy, respect, and allyship, helping to create a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
How You Can Support
We encourage parents and carers to support this important day at home, by having conversations focused around inclusion. Suggested topics include:
- Celebrating the abilities and achievements of people with disabilities, while advocating for greater inclusion and accessibility.
- Understanding that some disabilities are hidden and may not be immediately obvious.
- Appreciating that to achieve equality, different levels of support or adaptations may be offered to accommodate all students. Sometimes students find this difficult to understand, and can feel that they have not been treated fairly.
With this joint approach, we can continue to foster an environment where everyone is respected and valued.
Sports and PE News
Year 7 Bromley school cross country:
Out of 70 students :
- Jess R came 7th
- Alana S came 9th
- Sophie F came 14th
- William H came 16th.
Darrick Wood girls came 2nd overall out of 11 teams.
Netball Results:
- U12 A – Bullers Wood Girls – Won 4-3
- U12 A – Eden Park – Won 4-3
- U13 A – Hayes – Won 1-11
- U13 B – Hayes – Won 1- 11
- U13 A – Charles Darwin – Draw 0-0
- U14 A – Hayes – Lost 5-16
- U14 B – Bromley High – Draw 1-1
- U15 – Babington House – Won 16-6
- U15 – Hayes – Lost 14-15
- U15 – Coopers – Won 21-2
- U15 – Eden Park – Won 16-7
- U16 A – Hayes – Won 11- 8
- U16 A – Eltham College – Lost 0-17
- U18 1st VII – Ravens Wood – Lost 4-15
Safety & Awareness
Wellbeing
You can now book your child on to the Holiday activities and food programme this Winter 2024. There are several exciting activities available, including nutritious meals. The offer is free to all children who are eligible for benefit-related free school meals. Each provision will offer eligible children the opportunity to enjoy fun activities that will enable them to develop new skills, build confidence and meet new friends outside of term time.
Do feel free to visit Bromley Council’s website at Holiday activities and food programme – London Borough of Bromley and book directly with the provider of your choosing. Please book this as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Student Leadership
During the week of the 9th-13th December, the Student Leadership Council are celebrating ‘Festive Week’, a way to join the school community together and raise money for ‘Save the Children.’ There are many events going on across the week, including competitions, and we hope that the students all get involved – especially with Christmas Jumper day on Thursday 12th where you can pay £1 on ParentPay.
Work Related Learning
Apprenticeship Application Support
As a school, we work closely with Amazing Apprenticeships who is a leading organisation in the education sector, working with schools, colleges and employers. They supported our Pathways event last Thursday and spoke to students, parents and carers promoting the benefits of apprenticeships as well as tackling misconceptions.
Please find attached a step by step guide to applying for an apprenticeship as well as a link to their new Get Apprenticeship ‘Application Ready’ webinar which you may find useful if your child is currently in Year 11 or Year 13 and is considering a post-16 or post-18 apprenticeship pathway.
Your-step-by-step-guide-to-applying-for-an-apprenticeship.pdf
Get Apprenticeship ‘Application Ready’ – Amazing Apprenticeships