This week on Monday 15th June, we welcomed NWSLC to speak with students about higher education apprenticeships available after the age of 18. They provided valuable insight into the range of opportunities on offer, how to apply, and what to expect from these pathways.

Students learned about upcoming open days, giving them the chance to explore courses and ask questions, as well as the wide range of career options these routes can lead to in the future.

It was a great opportunity for students to start thinking about their next steps and feel more confident about planning for life after school.

On Monday it was bitter sweet as our Year 11 cohort finished their final exam of the year and with it their time at Etone.

Starting in the cafe at breaktime pupils began the annual festivities with signing shirts and sharing gifts with teachers. Each year the designs of these get more elaborate and this year did not disappoint. The sheer variety of the names and images were tremendous and also gave an insight into the individual character of each pupil from the cohort. This is something we value when we consider our Year 11's as we reflect on the Etone Learners they have become.

Following break, the cohort entered the cafe where a selection of treats was provided for them as a thank-you from the staff to the pupils for their excellent conduct throughout the exam season. Whilst the event was a joyous one, there was a clear undercurrent of sadness as pupils reflected on their time at Etone and realised it was the last few moments as pupils at the school. With pictures and signing completed the pupils gathered for a last group photo and some final words from Mr Bowley before departing the school.

We are excited to be welcoming the pupils back on Wednesday for their Leavers Assembly where they can also be in the running to win prizes, if they donate; PE kit, Uniform, revision guides and any equipment.

Then the final celebration before summer will be the Year 11 Prom on the 25^th June. Have a well deserved rest Year 11 and see you Wednesday.

On Monday our Year 10 cohort joined over 300 other schools for the first ever Young Enterprise Money Week Assembly. The session was an opportunity to consider finances for younger people hosted by Money Saving Experts own Martin Lewis CBE.

The assembly is the official launch of Money Matters Week. The week long focus is dedicated to providing skills and knowledge to pupils regarding the world of finance. This weeks assembly was the first step as Martin covered topics from savings accounts, student loans all the way to travel insurance. For example, travel insurance might seem like an additional extra however Martin shared the price for travel insurance can start from as little as £7. So prioritising that over an extra pair of flip-flops could be a good focus.

Overall the session was really enjoyable and pupils got a lot out of it. We can't wait for the rest of this week.

Thank you to the staff and sixth formers and students who battled the rain yesterday to make Etone Blooming Brilliant! Etone staff donated plants to fill planters donated by @wickes. These now sit at the front of school to welcome visitors in . Some of our team made a start of weeding some of the beds around the school site.

Gardening is a great way to boost your mental health, it allows us to connect with others and get outside , all whilst making a difference to our school site!

The Gardening club meet every Thursday from 3:15pm-4pm , we are looking for new members, with some exciting projects planned for September!

#wickescommunity #BloomingBrilliantEtone

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On Wednesday our safeguarding lead, Mrs Price ran the first parent session of this half term with a focus on pupil wellbeing.

This particular event is always a worthwhile one, sharing our top tips to support mental health and how we as a school support pupils in the modern world.

With some tricky areas to navigate in life, from online to emerging trends, the importance of collaboration has never been more prominent. The event was well attended with pupils making an excellent effort to excel and achieve!

We are delighted that all 14 of our 'Brilliant Club - Scholar's Programme' participants submitted their final 1,500 word assignments last week.  Exploring the topic, 'what is money' with a PhD tutor has been an enriching experience for them which has impacted their thinking, creativity, and academic writing.  Their final feedback 1:1 sessions with their tutor are scheduled in on Tuesday, 23rd June following which they will complete their post-programme assessment, before graduating at The University of Sheffield in July.  Well done to all of you! 

Year 8 students at Etone College recently took part in an exciting Army STEM Day led by Science staff, combining creativity, engineering and problem-solving in a hands-on learning experience.

Throughout the day, students worked in teams to design and build their own vehicles using a range of materials and technology-based challenges. The activities encouraged students to think critically, test ideas and adapt their designs to improve performance.

As well as developing their STEM knowledge, the event focused heavily on key employability skills that are essential for future careers and everyday life. Students demonstrated excellent teamwork by collaborating effectively and supporting one another during the challenges. Many also showed great initiative when solving problems independently and improving their vehicle designs.

The project required strong organisation skills as students managed their time, materials and responsibilities within their teams. Technology and numeracy skills were also developed through measuring, constructing and evaluating the success of each vehicle design. In addition, students strengthened their communication skills by sharing ideas, explaining their thinking and presenting their final outcomes.

The Army STEM Day was an enjoyable and engaging experience which allowed students to apply their learning in a practical setting while building confidence and resilience. Staff were extremely impressed with the enthusiasm, creativity and determination shown by all students involved.

Well done to everyone who took part in this successful and inspiring event.

The holiday season can be a wonderful time to relax, spend time with loved ones, and enjoy a break from routine. However, it can also bring challenges, including feelings of loneliness, financial pressures, increased stress, or concerns about personal safety and wellbeing.

Whether you are spending the holidays with family and friends or on your own, it is important to take care of yourself and know where to turn if you need information, advice, or support.

Some simple ways to stay safe and well over the holiday period include:

• Staying connected with family, friends, neighbours, or colleagues.
• Looking after your physical and mental wellbeing by maintaining healthy routines where possible.
• Planning ahead if you are travelling or attending social events.
• Being mindful of online safety and protecting personal information when shopping or communicating online.
• Seeking support early if you are struggling with your mental health, finances, housing, or personal circumstances.
• Checking in on others who may be feeling isolated or vulnerable during the holiday period.

Remember, support is available throughout the holidays. If you need advice, guidance, or someone to talk to, help is only a phone call or click away.

Please take a look at some of these useful websites for information, support and guidance, if required over the holidays.

If you or someone else is in immediate danger or requires urgent assistance, always contact the emergency services without delay.