Anti-Bullying Week 2020 took place during 16-20 November and to mark the week Kingsmead students were shown a virtual assembly on this important topic during their form tutor time with the opportunity for class discussion. In addition, and to help raise the profile of the anti-bullying message, both students and staff were invited to wear odd socks to school on Friday 20 November, as promoted by the Anti-Bullying Alliance.

A group of Year 7 students with an interest in ICT had the opportunity to take part in lunchtime workshops offered by Youth Workers from the ‘In the Mix Project’ during the first week in November. Over the four sessions students were able to develop and enhance their digital, coding and computer skills and learn more about internet safety and tech in general.

Year 7 students, with the help of spades, gardening gloves and a team of volunteers, took part in a mass tree planting exercise on school grounds on Monday 9 November. Approximately 400 tree saplings were provided by the Woodland Trust, as part of their mission to support schools and communities in getting millions of trees planted across the country.

A new single and music video has been launched by the charity ‘Wouldn’t Change a Thing’ to link in with October Down Syndrome Awareness Month. The charity works to raise positive awareness of Down Syndrome, to break down stereotypes and help raise the value of people with DS in society, and their song’s lyrics help reflect this message.

The results of the Senior Student elections were announced in school on Thursday 17 September. This year, each candidate delivered their campaign speech through a pre-recorded video presentation to tutor groups whilst in their PSHCE lessons.

Today is one of those days that students should always remember - the anticipation of collecting GCSE results. Due to the unprecedented circumstances we find ourselves in, today is different to the normal results collection experience. However, achievements are no less than those of previous year groups. The class of 2020 have shown determination and resilience throughout the pandemic.

Kingsmead student Mia Homer completed Work Experience during February half term with SC Group. It was clearly an exceptional experience!

The Co-op store in Wiveliscombe have very kindly donated £250 towards the school purchase of a defibrillator. Thank you to the store and to Manager Michelle Benton who visited Kingsmead to present the cheque.

Since October 2019 a group of Lower School students have been preparing for the annual Rotary Youth Speaks Competition. This is a formal public speaking competition with a strict set of guidelines and criteria and requires students to work in teams of three to deliver a formal debate to an audience of Rotarians and members of the public.

A public consultation event was held in the main hall on Wednesday 22nd January 2020 to show the plans for the future development of Kingsmead School. Representatives from the appointed contractor, Bouygues UK were in attendance to discuss the project and answer questions relating to the proposals and receive any feedback from the 176 attendees which included students, staff, governors, parents/carers, local councillors and the general public.