The Darrick Wood Way
Parent Bulletin

This week we hosted our annual Open Evening, and it was one of the busiest I can remember. While the primary purpose of the event is to welcome prospective students and their families, giving them a chance to explore our school, meet staff and students, and consider whether DWS is the right choice for secondary education, for me, it represents something deeper. Events like this, especially at the start of the academic year, offer a moment to reflect on our journey as a school and my time as head teacher. This was my 11th Open Evening in the role, and I couldn’t have been prouder of our students and staff. Their enthusiasm and teamwork on the night were truly remarkable.

I received countless positive comments, particularly about our student guides and subject ambassadors, who represented their school with such enthusiasm and pride. Special mention must go to Daniel, Beth and Toby, who spoke with confidence and poise in front of over 500 guests in the Hall – an impressive achievement.

Earlier this week, I wrote to parents and carers regarding proposed changes to our school uniform, following government guidance to limit branded items to three plus a tie. “Branded” refers to items featuring logos or specific colours not widely available outside our designated uniform suppliers, including branded PE kit. Thank you to everyone who has responded so far. The consultation remains open until 20th October 2025.

You’ll also find below a reminder about the importance of students being properly equipped for school. One of our core values is Responsibility, and we expect all students to take ownership of their learning by ensuring they have the necessary equipment each day. Some may need more support from home, and we’re grateful for your help. A quick check of their bags before they leave can make a big difference. When students arrive prepared, with pens, pencils, rulers, and other essentials, lessons can begin promptly without interruptions. Of course, we’ll always assist where needed, but learning is most effective when students are ready from the outset.

With Open Evening now behind us, we turn our attention to the Sixth Form Open Evening on Thursday, 6th November (7–9pm). Before that, we have one of my favourite events of the year—the Year 7 Choir of the Year competition, which takes place on Thursday, 16th October. I’m very much looking forward to seeing our Year 7 students perform with their Forms in front of parents and guests. It promises to be a truly memorable evening.

You will start seeing communications from the School which will include the winning entry into our 50th anniversary logo competition. Congratulations to William in Year 8 for his design and to all who entered the competition.

Finally, I’d like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all committee members and everyone who contributes in any way to our Parents, Staff and Friends Association (PSFA). I had the pleasure of attending the AGM on Thursday evening, which gave me another opportunity to reflect on the incredible impact the PSFA continues to have on our school community.

Last year, the PSFA generously donated £11,000 to the School – a remarkable achievement. These funds will be used to enhance the experience of both current and future students by providing valuable extras that might otherwise be beyond our reach, such as upgraded playground equipment and other enrichment resources.