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Year 7 Student Support Group

This past year has seen us all struggle in different ways, at St Clement Danes School we have been conscious of the impact this has had on our students, especially those new to the school.

Starting secondary school can be a daunting event, even more so during a pandemic. Mrs Lloyd-Adams, Support Group Lead, and Mr Harris, Assistant Headteacher, selected a small group of students who had recently joined the school in Year 7, to be part of the newly formed Year 7 support group. The aim of the group was to increase the students’ confidence and self-esteem, whilst demonstrating to them that their goals can be achieved. The group spoke at length during sessions about overcoming barriers and having determination to try (growth mindset). The students worked on various worksheets and did some practical activities as well to build their confidence. Every session they ‘checked in’ using a Zone of Regulation sheet which helped them describe how they were feeling, and consequently discussed why and how they could improve their mood. They organised simple tasks such as handing out stationery and talking about ways to help themselves at home, and some sessions also focused on Aspiration, where future jobs were discussed, including watching some videos from ex-students.

We are extremely proud of the students who participated and managed to show such enthusiasm and positivity during these sessions. The support group finished on a high with certificates handed out and a celebratory pizza lunch, socially distanced of course!

We also have some lovely words below from one of the Year 7 student participants, Aditi, on how she felt:

This support group has always helped me when I was stressed, worried or even nervous. It has helped me feel motivated and has helped me gain confidence. During lessons I would always be quiet and shy, but after this great group I have started participating in class more and talking confidently to other people. I have also made new friends. Every week we made targets for ourselves to reach and accomplish. One of the best parts about this group is the free breakfast. I also met new people who I have never talked to before. Mrs Lloyd-Adams and Mr Harris always made us feel welcome at every meeting. The past couple of weeks have been such great fun and I enjoyed every part of it!

 

 

 

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29th January

Sporting Success: A Season of Triumphs for the PE Faculty

It has been an exceptional start to the year for our sports teams, with pupils across Year 7 and Year 11 delivering outstanding performances on the pitch, the court and the track. Here is a roundup of the latest results from the PE Faculty. Football Successes: The Year 11 Boys football team produced a fantastic display to reach the U16 County Cup Quarter Finals. While all 15 squad members contributed superbly to the team effort, special mention must go to Frankie and Myles, who were named Players of the Match after scoring two spectacular long range strikes. Ollie and Sammy also found the net to complete the scoring. Meanwhile, the Year 7B team showed true grit in wet conditions to secure their second win in the district league against CDS. A great goal from David and a composure-filled penalty from Player of the Match, Zak, secured the victory.  Athletics Achievements: Our Year 7 Athletics teams have seen their dedication pay off after training hard on Thursdays throughout the term. At the TR&W SSP Indoor Athletic Meeting, the Girls’ team took home a brilliant 1st place, while the Boys’ team finished a strong 3rd. We also have a massive individual achievement to celebrate. Theo (Year 7) has been crowned the U13 South of England Shot Put Champion at the Lee Valley Indoor Track. In what was his first-ever indoor competition, Theo smashed his personal best by 50cm. He also showed great pace on the track, reaching the semi-finals of the U13 60m sprint and missing out on the final by a heartbreaking 0.06 seconds. Basketball Season Opener: The basketball season got off to a super start with a thrilling game against Rickmansworth School. In a contest between two evenly matched sides, our team came out on top, led by a fine performance from captain Seth. Congratulations to all pupils for their hard work and sportsmanship!