Dear parents

Welcome to the new academic year at Britannica International School. I was not quite sure where to start with this Newsletter, as so many things have happened over the summer!

Exam results: IGCSE

Britannica’s IGCSE exam results this year were outstanding. An incredible 42% of all grades were A* or A, an 18% increase from the previous year. Early indicators suggest that that this is more than double the overall average. What was more impressive is that 60% of grades were above what data indicators suggest the students should have achieved based on entry levels and prior attainment. I would like to congratulate all the students moving in to year 12 this year and also thank the secondary staff team who taught, encouraged, challenged, intervened and cajoled this cohort over the last two years for their high standards, care and dedication.

School improvements and extension

I am sure that you will have been impressed with the changes and improvements made to the school during the summer period. Our owners Orbital are dedicated to achieving the best educational outcomes for the children and understand that the learning environment plays a crucial part in successful learning and teaching. There are many clearly visible changes such as the refurbished entrance area, auditorium, bathrooms, windows and new access gates but some of the most significant work took place in upgrading the heating system and replacing the air ventilation system. These will have a major impact on keeping key areas and classrooms warm or cool dependent on the time of year.

Negotiations are continuing with interested parties for the start of the extension building project. As and when I have more specific details and timings, I will be sure to let you know.

Access cards

The installation of the new fast gate access system does mean that having an access card will, in due course, be essential in order to enter the school building. We realise that new families do not have these yet and so have adopted a flexible approach this week. The next two weeks will be a period of transition whilst we ensure everyone has cards and every card works. The process will start next week when all new students will have a photo taken to be used on the access card. I will communicate when the transition period is finished and the system is fully implemented.

Meet the Teacher event

Our first main event of the new academic year takes place next Thursday 5th September. All parents are invited to come in to school to meet our teachers. In the Primary phase, sessions will run by class teachers at 3.45 and 4.20 in each of the classes. In secondary, there will be two presentations by the senior staff in the auditorium, also at 3.45 and 4.20 and then an opportunity to meet with specialist staff up on the secondary corridor. We hope this gives families with children in more than one phase or class in the school, the opportunity to attend two specific sessions. I look forward to welcoming you to the event.

Teacher feature!

We all like to know about the teachers in our school so we are introducing a new section to the newsletter this year. Each week we will introduce you to one of our wonderful staff and try and give you a little more information about the person hidden behind that teaching exterior. Enjoy!

Wishing you a wonderful weekend

Kind regards

Neil McGarry

Principal