The Darrick Wood Way
Parent Bulletin
“Education is the most powerful weapon, which you can use to change the world”
– Nelson Mandela –
Message from the Head Teacher
Welcome to our second Parent Bulletin of this term. In assemblies over the past week, and as mentioned lower down in this bulletin, I have been awarding badges to students who have successfully applied for leadership roles. For many, this may be a first step towards a future where they increasingly make a positive difference in their community, whether that is in school or in the wider world. Either way, we know it will always be something we are grateful for, but will also enable them to develop and grow as individuals.
Our extra-curricular programme is well underway and I have been hearing of wins in football in particular so far. This bulletin also reports on a fantastic turn out for the dance auditions. Well done to all involved in these and other activities over the term ahead.
Last week we welcomed parents of our new Year 7 students to an information evening and on Thursday this week we also had a really great turnout from parents/carers of students in Year 11 for their information evening. We hope everyone found the evenings helpful but if there is anything further you need to know, please get in touch via the office or your child’s tutor.
I was delighted with the number of students who entered our 50th anniversary logo competition. We are in the process of awarding certificates and vouchers to those who were highly commended and will be creating a display featuring many of the best entries. This week I presented William in Year 8 with his winner’s certificate and voucher. We have digitised his design and are beginning to use this in communications and promotional material:
Assemblies this week have focused on a theme of “Positivity – pass it on”. And so I will end my message this week by letting you know that so far this term we have awarded Darrick Wood students with 68,512 positive points. Please check your Bromcom MCAS app to see how many of these have been awarded to your own child and for which category. We have had a big push on points for Responsibility this term. A reminder that all those who receive zero negatives each day are automatically awarded a bonus positive point later in the evening!
Attendance Focus
94.1%
Overall attendance is 94.1%.
Thank you for supporting your child’s attendance so far this academic year. If your child is unwell or scheduled to attend an appointment, please notify us using the Studybugs app. Appointment letters or confirmation screenshots can be emailed to attendance@darrickwood.bromley.sch.uk. Whenever possible appointments should be made outside school hours.
Reading Recommendations
Click below for details
Upcoming Events
Wednesday, 8th October 2025 – Open Evening. School closes early to prepare for the evening and opens one hour later than usual on the next day.
Thursday, 16th October 2025 – Year 7 Choir of the Year
Monday, 20th to Friday, 31st October – Half-term break
Thursday, 6th November – Sixth Form Open Evening
Friday, 7th November – PDD2 – only staff attend
Useful Links
Updates and Reminders
Key Stage 3 English reminder
Students in Years 7, 8 and 9 will be in Mixed Ability Groups for 2025-2026, rather than in sets. Group numbers do NOT correspond to a set; for example, 8y/En2 is NOT Set 2. Please reassure your child that they have not been moved up or down if they are in these specific years.
Year 7 are scheduled be taken out of form groups and reassigned to Mixed Ability Groups for English by early October.
Research has shown groups to be beneficial for the vast majority of students in secondary education as well as aligning to other school’s practices in the Impact MAT.
Uniform and equipment
The majority of our students continue to demonstrate they understand the importance of wearing the correct uniform and smartly. As the season grows colder, a reminder that coats should be plain black or plain dark brown with only small logos. Hoodies etc are not allowed. Also, we do not allow trainers of any kind or footwear designed by sports companies. A smart shoe appropriate for the school environment is expected. I am grateful for parents/carers for their support with these matters. Students who come to school in trainers will be requested to change into a shoe provided by the School. Only in circumstances where a trainer is necessary due to proven medical advice and a note from home will an exception be made. Blisters can usually be overcome through blister plasters and do not require a change into trainers. Thank you to all parents/carers for your support with these matters.
Many parents/carers will have heard of the government’s plans to restrict the number of compulsory branded items that schools can require as part of the uniform. The Governing Body has been considering how this would affect Darrick Wood and is proposing some minor changes which we will consult parents/carers on early next week. The aim will be to comply with the new restrictions which come into effect in September 2026, maintain the overall distinct look of our uniform whilst being mindful always of reducing the cost to parents/carers. Please look out for the consultation email next week. Staff and the Student Leadership Council will also be asked to comment on the proposal.
Highlights of the Fortnight
As a school last week we celebrated Jeans for Genes Day and replaced an item of uniform for an item of denim. Students from all years (and staff) took part in this and as soon as we have a total raised we will let you know. Thank you in advance for your donations for this amazing cause.
The Poetry Society and Darrick Wood
Last Tuesday, 16th September, one of our English Department staff presented a Poetry Society Cloud Chamber webinar for the 2025-2026 Poetry Society’s Competition theme of ‘Play’. Miss Vos, who was named a Teacher Trailblazer by the Poetry Society for 2024-2025, presented part of a national webinar for teachers, educators, and poets to explore how to engage students in the joy of writing and reading poetry. The Cloud Chamber is the Poetry Society’s outreach platform to engage ever more students, teachers, and educators in innovative and best-practice creative writing of poetry.
DWS Dance Company Auditions – What a Turnout!
We’re thrilled to share the incredible success of this year’s DWS Dance Company auditions! Last week, over fifty talented students from Years 7 to 10 brought their energy, creativity, and passion for dance to the studio — all competing for just eight coveted spots in the company.
The standard was truly inspiring, and we were blown away by the enthusiasm and commitment shown by everyone who auditioned. A huge congratulations to our newest company members:
Evelyn (Y9), Annelie (Y8), Emily (Y8), Isla (Y8), Thea (Y7), Sam (Y7), Lucia (Y7), and Issy (Y7)
We’re so proud of you!
The company kicked off their first rehearsal on Monday, and it was amazing to see the creativity already flowing. We can’t wait to see what this talented group will achieve together this year!
Other Dance Opportunities – Come Join the Fun!
Dance is for everyone, and we’d love to see even more students getting involved. Here are the current clubs on offer:
- Thursday after school (3.30 – 4.30pm): KS3 & KS4 Dance Club
- Friday after school (3.20 – 4.00pm): Year 7 Dance Club
No need to sign up — just turn up in your PE kit and get ready to move! We hope to see lots of new faces joining us soon.
Big Foot Arts Education
This week we had Big Foot Arts Education in for Year 7. Students were presented with an hour long extended assembly exploring powerful choices they sometimes have to make with friends and what is considered right and wrong. The presenter gave them a scenario about some friends who had decisions to make that would affect each of their lives. The year group were fantastic and a credit to the School. They engaged well and debated their views with great maturity.
Year 9 & Year 10 Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Parents’ Information Evening
We had an incredibly successful evening at our DofE Information Evening for students in Years 9 and 10. We were truly overwhelmed by the fantastic turnout.
It was wonderful to see so many enthusiastic students and supportive parents filling the room, all eager to learn more about the exciting opportunities the DofE Award has to offer.
The energy and interest throughout the evening were a clear reflection of the strong community spirit and the growing appetite for adventure, personal growth, and new challenges. We’re excited to support our students on their DofE journey and look forward to what promises to be an inspiring year ahead.
We look forward to starting an exciting DofE season
Miss Manning & Mrs Bothick
Curriculum Showcase
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
This term, we continue to celebrate and reflect on the rich diversity within our school and wider community. As part of our ongoing commitment to inclusion, we’ve marked several important awareness events this September:
UK National Inclusion Week (22nd – 28th September)
This national initiative encourages schools, workplaces, and communities to celebrate inclusion in all its forms. At Darrick Wood School, we are proud of our inclusive ethos and the way our students support one another across all backgrounds and abilities. Inclusion is not just a week – it’s embedded in everything we do.
Bi Visibility Day – 23rd September
Bi Visibility Day is a time to recognise and support members of the bisexual community, raising awareness of the unique challenges they may face. We stand with all students and families in our community, celebrating the full spectrum of identities.
International Day of Sign Languages – 23rd September
This day holds special significance for our school, as we are proud to have a specialist deaf provision. It’s a reminder of the importance of communication, accessibility, and the beauty of sign languages around the world. We continue to promote British Sign Language (BSL) awareness and inclusion across our school.
Assembly Focus: Positivity – Pass It On
This week’s assembly theme, Positivity – Pass It On, explored how kindness and action can ripple through communities. Students learned about inspiring figures such as:
Malala Yousafzai, who continues to advocate for girls’ education globally.
Marcus Rashford, whose campaign ensured children received meals during the pandemic.
Sikh communities in the UK, who provided free meals to those in need.
Initiatives in Thailand and Pakistan, where generosity and community spirit shine through shared meals (often known now as Pay It Forward) and support.
These stories helped students reflect on how small acts of kindness can make a big difference—and how we can all play a part in building a more inclusive world. We hope you will discuss these significant events with your young people at home over the forthcoming days in support of equality, diversity and inclusion.
Sports and PE News
GCSE PE Students at Cyclopark!
Last week, our GCSE PE students had the fantastic opportunity to visit Cyclopark as part of their practical assessment. The day was not only a chance to showcase their cycling and fitness skills but also a valuable experience in teamwork, determination, and resilience.
Their enthusiasm and positive attitude stood out. They made a real impression on the instructors who praised them for their effort, behaviour, and skill level. The feedback received was very positive, highlighting both their physical abilities and their mature, respectful approach to the session.
A huge well done to all students involved.
Safety & Awareness
Wellbeing
We welcome all our new Year 7 students to Darrick Wood School and hope they are settling well.
Please find some specific guidance from Bromley Y on supporting your child throughout Year 7.
Parents of students in other year groups may also find some of this information useful.
Student Leadership
Main Assembly
This week in assembly we had the Brass Band playing for us which was a lovely way to start the day and showed their amazing skills to the whole school. Thank you to Matty, Alice, Adam, Alex and Vincent for their performance and to Mr Rees, Head of Music for all his work with this group.
Main Assembly
Last week in Main assembly the Head Teacher awarded Leadership badges to students. It was wonderful to see so many given positions of authority within the School and want to make a difference. Tutor/ECO and Charity Rep badges will be given out in alternative assemblies in the next couple of weeks and Years 7 and 12 will be invited to apply for leadership roles nearer to half term. Congratulations to all those who received a badge.
Out of School Achievement Celebrations
Anna – Year 7 – Anna demonstrated a great level of tennis at Kent County Championships 2025 and was invited to join Kent County Team. She is currently ranked at number 7 among 11U Kent Girls players.
Fleur – Year 7 – Has been selected to play for London City Lionesses Academy U12s football team for this season in the junior Premier league.
Veer – Year 7 – Cricket team for Kent Regional development programme. For the summer season of cricket he was the highest run maker and wicket taker for his cricket club, Hayes, and also the second highest run maker and wicket taker in his cricket division.
Lina – Year 11 – Lina passed her Grade 7 Violin exam with Merit.
Shayla – Year 11 – Lamda Level 5 Distinction
