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Welcome to Longhill - A Specialist Technology College |
 Mr Haydn Stride, Headteacher All within our school share our vision: “Determined to be the best we can.” We are proud of our achievements and the success of our young people. Our examination results are improving each year and the value we add to our young people’s education places us in the top three similar schools in the whole of Sussex. Examination results are important, but not sufficient. Every young person who enters our school is valued and encouraged to become an empathetic contributor to their community and wider society. We value all members of our community and are committed to working productively to build relationships with each and every individual, family and organisation within and around Longhill; that will enable us to be the best we can.
Photograph right courtesy The Argus |
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February 2010
Dear Parents
It has not been the start to the New Year that we would have liked. The snow and ice caused the school and our families high levels of disruption to our normal routines and work levels.
I am sorry for the levels of inconvenience the school closures caused you and the impact this had upon your routines and work.
The decisions to close the school were taken as early as we could to allow as much time as we could for arrangements of care to be made. If you have any feedback surrounding the closures negative or positive, I would welcome them as it would enable us to provide you with the best possible service and support from the school.
The stop- start nature of this term has had a negative impact upon the work levels of both students and staff. I am very focused now on making good any delays and ensuring we get back on track as quickly as possible.
Schools operate by routines, regular activities and clear, shared expectations. I am aware that the start of this term has had an unsettling impact on our young people and the day to day activities within the school.
Our focus over this next term is to get back to business, high quality learning and teaching. We are working hard now to catch up lost time and support our Year 11 students, who have only weeks left now before their exams in May.
Our expectations are clear and I thank you for your support in ensuring your children attend school on time and in full uniform.
The Governors have asked me to engage our students and parents in a minor reform of the uniform code. We wish to consider using ‘black footwear’ after Easter. This would result in a slackening of the guidance to allow black trainers and casual black shoes to be worn. No other items of the school dress code are under review at this time. This came about after representation to Governors from the Student Council. I would be grateful if you could give me some feedback either through email or letter via the school website or administrative team.
I look forward to your response to the closures and the change to the footwear.
There was a consultation meeting at the school on Thursday 11 February 5-8pm to discuss a new initiative from the Healthy Schools team to support young people. The proposals are to provide a drop in facility that will provide information and support on a range of issues such as: bullying, healthy eating, drug and alcohol misuse, this could provide condoms and other sexual health services. The consultation on the 11th also provided an opportunity for parents and carers to share and explore how to talk with their children about sex and relationships. This consultation meeting was supported by representatives from the local authority who are approaching all Brighton & Hove schools with this opportunity to develop their services in order to further improve the health and well being of all students.
May I lastly also draw your attention to the FAQ’s section of our website which has been populated by parents and gives parents an opportunity to ask follow up questions.
Once again thank you for your understanding about the school closures earlier this term and my apologies for any inconvenience this has caused you.
Yours sincerely
Haydn Stride
Headteacher |
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