Newsletters

GHS Connect #11 Monday 25th November

Mia's notes

I really hope that everyone managed to have a lovely longer weekend and a bit of a rest. This week will no doubt feel like a bit more of a slog, so I remind everyone to please heed Ajay’s advice in the staff meeting to stay as calm as possible, allow take up time and keep students in lessons as much as possible. The less disruption that students have to their learning, the more likely they are to remain in a routine and behave better. Missing vital chunks of learning is a quick way to bring on more disruption, as students return to a lesson unsure of what to do and how to focus, and feeling out of control as they try to catch up.

On a different note, as we enter lesson observation season, I wanted to remind everyone that being observed is developmental and intended to be a positive experience, rather than a judgemental exercise. We have a long history of supportive observation at GHS and welcome colleagues using this as an opportunity to share best practice, but also be transparent and open about challenges they may be having with a class in order to work through strategies collaboratively. 

This week, a reminder that we have a cross borough Somali coffee morning taking place. Do support Fuad, Amandeep and the wider parental ambassador team with this if you are free.

Have a great week - stay positive!

Mia

The week ahead

Monday
Normal Day

Tuesday
Year Team Meeting/Pastoral Time 3.15pm - 4.30pm. 

Wednesday
Briefing 8.15am in the library.

Thursday
Normal Day

Friday
Normal Day

Notes
Year 12 Interim 2 due.
Year 13 Assessment Week (in class).

Learning and Teaching - Pride in our Routines

“We live in a digital age. The pupils we teach do not know a life without technology. The opportunities it offers us to improve education are truly exciting.” - EEF

One of our core L&T routine is to make use of digital platforms, including Google Classroom. Here are Google Classroom top tips from Indy Lall:

• Use ‘Materials’ over posts to organise resources.
• Upload block resources for units as these are easier to navigate.
• Upload resources ahead of a unit rather than retrospectively.
• Explicitly show students how materials are organised.
• Create tasks that require students to use Google Classroom regularly.
• Ask students to log in on a desktop rather than their phone.
• Spend time in lessons practising how to navigate and use Google Classroom.
   

What does the future hold? How will AI shape teaching? Here is a video to help us start the discussion (you may need to sign into X.com to watch).

Mental Health in the Winter Months

As the season changes and the clocks have gone back, it can be really helpful for our physical, emotional and mental health to plan a smooth transition into the new time schedule and the darker evenings. You may find implementing the following strategies helps you manage the change in daylight hours with more ease.

Maintain a Consistent Routine
Keeping a consistent daily routine can anchor your internal clock. Try to eat meals, exercise, and engage in regular activities at the same time each day. Consistency helps your body and mind acclimatise to the new schedule and darker evenings.

Embrace the Morning Light
Take advantage of the extra daylight in the morning. Open your curtains or go for a morning walk to soak up the natural light. Exposure to sunlight can help regulate your circadian rhythm and boost your mood and energy levels for the day ahead.

Limit Screen Time Before Bed
The light from screens can interfere with your sleep quality. Reduce screen time before bed. Consider reading a book or engaging in a relaxing activity to unwind and prepare for sleep.

Stay Active
Physical activity is a powerful tool to help regulate your sleep patterns. Incorporate exercise into your daily routine, as it can help you feel more awake during the day and sleep more soundly at night.

Be Mindful of Your Diet
Avoid heavy meals, caffeine, and alcohol close to bedtime. These can disrupt your sleep.

Practice Patience and Self-Care
Remember that it’s normal to feel a bit off for a few days after a time change and in the darker months. Be patient with yourself and practice self-care. Prioritise your wellbeing and give yourself the time you need to adjust.

By implementing these strategies, you can make the transition into the new time schedule as smooth and stress-free as possible. For some FREE resources about how to manage stress, click on this link, or dig into some learning with Wellbeing Protect.  The NHS also has some wellbeing strategies here.

Niloo

SEN Department Updates

CP Information

We have been busy updating the Safeguarding section on the GHS website. There are now many resources useful for staff and families. Please share information with your tutees to guide them on support that they can reach for.

SEN Update

Inclusion Heroes

I wanted to say a huge thank you to Manpreet in IT for his continued support with working on the safeguarding aspects of the website and adapting information multiple times.

Hope you all have had lovely long weekend and a huge thank you for all your continued support working with our challenging cohorts.

Gurvinder

If there are any concerns about Equality and Diversity (staff)  at GHS please contact A Johal (DHT)