Winterval!

September seems a lifetime ago now, as we reach the end of this interminable term. It's been a long hard slog, at times, with some fantastic moments interspersed.

Highlights abound, to be honest. My particular favourite thing has been seeing the consistently excellent teaching which has taken place on our beloved corridor. It may not seem like it, but I'm always paying attention to the lessons and taking in the atmosphere. And it's a great atmosphere. Trust me - walk down any other corridor at any time, and you'll struggle to see the engagement and enjoyment which is happening on our patch.

Ofsted, it has to be said, was a good experience. As noted by McNicholas, we all pulled together and got through that pressured environment successfully, contributing to the school's excellent outcome. It was testament to your professionalism and talent.

My final highlight, before we look forward to 2012, has to be our department meetings; they're my favourite meetings, for many reasons. The discussions are enjoyable and informative; I always take something new away. The moderation sessions have, thanks to Lorraine and Helen, been well organised and productive - open and honest process which have prompted effective reflective practice. Getting back to our regular schedule of meetings after the January exams have vanished into the ether will be satisfying and exciting. Ideas for discussion are welcome from all.

So - to 2012. Stockpile canned food, hoard items which will have post-apocalyptic bartering value and fill your cellar with bottled water; the end of the world is nigh! A new Ofsted framework will put the proverbial cat among the pigeons, and, together with the school's new priorities (very similar to the ones we identified ourselves in July), will mean more work, more development and new challenges all round. We can survive these dramatic changes if we stick together and focus upon our core business.

Unlike previous years, perhaps, we can control this agenda ourselves. We can take charge, set priorities, watch each other and learn from each other.

Keep it going throughout this last week, a vital week in so many ways, have a great break, and let's hit the ground running in the New Year.

Word.

Striking Impact

Depending on your point of view, this week you could either have had a striking impact or been part of a damp squib. Teaching aside...

Only joking.

Your teaching was more than likely striking. I saw some excellent work, informally of course; restorative circles abounded, pleasingly aimed at the more difficult groups. It may have been difficult, it might not have been the prettiest, but it was a start, and that's what matters.

My main point this week is a simple plea. Tell our year 11 pupils to attend revision. The sessions are fantastic - genuinely the best I've helped out at - and we need every single E or D grade pupil in a classroom, getting that extra practise. We need them there, they need to be there. Make sure they are there.

Finally, read this awesome speech which thankfully was never needed.

Enjoy the rest of this blustery Sunday.