2004 was an exciting year for the school when we saw the development of a range of new opportunities for students. These included new subjects like Drama and Psychology and the expansion of existing opportunities in ICT and Modern languages.

More students than ever before took part in extra-curricular activities like sport, chess club, the duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, the School’s TV Station and the newly formed jazz group and Musical showcase ensemble. I hope that 2005 will all an even wider range of opportunities being offered.

The school’s governors are working very hard to raise money in connection with the Sir Thomas Mansell Franklin Trust to support activities which will enrich and expand the experiences available to students.

Things have been changing in the classroom too with investment in interactive white boards and other resources which allow students to learn in different ways which are best suited to their needs and interests.

I am anxious that this continues and that parents too play a significant part in shaping our plans and priorities. For example, are there any subjects which parents feel should be given a higher priority? If there were room would parents be interested in learning a new subject alongside other students. If new facilities in drama and PE are developed, should these be made available to the community in the evenings and during school holidays? The list of course could go on and I will be delighted to hear your views if you can spare the time to write to me or chat when you next visit the school. I hope that in 2005 our dreams and ambitions will start to turn into reality.