23rd October 2024
Dear Parent/Carer,
We are approaching the end of the first half term. It has certainly been a busy and fast paced half term and I hope you are enjoying reading my weekly newsletters and seeing the many great photos: Principal’s Weekly Newsletter – Cowley International College – St Helens.
We have had nearly 200 lessons this half term which have been carefully planned so your child can learn new knowledge and skills. The data shows that 99% of lesson marks each week are ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’. That’s an incredible achievement and reflects their academic aspiration.
The behaviour of students in lessons and around the college is outstanding. You will have seen the number of huge achievement points achieved on Class Charts awarded each week. We have very high expectations of behaviour at Cowley and we will never settle for second best with your children.
We have now introduced the ‘Cowley Way’ that reflects our Cowleian values. Part of the ‘Cowley Way’ is social norms; the manners we use and how we communicate to each other. I am always very proud at the respect to each other, staff and visitors that our Cowley students show. I am fully aware this does not happen by chance, so thank you for developing these social norms at home. As we know, simply saying, “please” and “thank you” goes a long way in life.
It is well publicised that attendance to school is the key factor that will support learning and success at school. Well done to the 630 students at Cowley who currently have full attendance – they have been in every day since September. Please continue to send your child into school and see our website for support: Attendance – Cowley International College – St Helens.
As you will know, we recognise that Cowley has more than the ‘200 lessons’ and doing well in exams. I am so pleased to see the vast majority of students are taking part in extracurricular activities to balance their time spent studying and to support with their wellbeing and mental health. We are all grateful for the time and commitment of Cowley staff who offer these opportunities.
What is coming up next half term?
Next half term is going another busy time as we move swiftly to Christmas. So, here are some events to be aware of:
- Y11 Mock Exams – The GCSE exams are fast approaching and ‘practice makes possible’. These exams are an opportunity for Y11 students to see how their revision is preparing them for the summer and gives an indicator to the Sixth Form about which subjects they may consider studying in September 2025. There is nothing to worry about, but daily revision is required.
- Remembrance Day (11th November) – At Cowley, we recognise this day and remind the students of the sacrifices made for our freedom. Cowley students who are in Cadets, Scouts and Guides attend college in their uniform as a mark of respect on this day.
- Christmas celebrations – Christmas is huge at Cowley; with lights, choir, concerts, reward celebrations and much more. We also work with local charities to support those less fortunate. Please keep a look at my newsletter for events that parents are invited to.
- Antibullying conference (3rd December) – We recognise that we must work together to educate students and respond to any bullying that takes place. We welcome all parents to attend this conference.
- World faiths day (13th December) – A very special day where we welcome visitors into college and students will learn about kindness and different faiths.
Students finish for half term holiday at 3:05pm on Friday 25th October and return at 8:30am on Monday 4th November. I wish you and your family a restful and safe holiday. However, this is the holiday that I worry most about our students. Please ensure your children are safe with their celebrations of Halloween and Bonfire Night.
Once again, thank you for your continued support to the college.
Best wishes,
Mr Cormack
Principal
