Embracing Community and Life’s Priorities
Dear Parents
As Easter approaches, I am deeply grateful for the privilege of being part of our remarkable school community. These past few months have been particularly reflective for me, as I was away from school for an extended period due to a necessary medical procedure. This time away allowed me to contemplate life’s important aspects—family, friends, relationships, education, and, most importantly, our children. It was a period of introspection and discovery that has profoundly impacted my perspective and priorities.
I cannot overstate how much I missed the daily interactions with our pupils and the camaraderie with my colleagues. Tower College isn’t just a place of employment for me; it’s a second home – a place where passion and purpose intersect. Reflecting on my journey over the past 17 years, I realize that joining this community was one of the best decisions of my life.
Beyond Academics: Our Commitment to Personal Growth and Development
Tower College stands out for its commitment to academic excellence and nurturing environment, which promotes personal growth and development for pupils and staff. My time here has enriched my life in countless ways, reinforcing the truth in the saying, “Find a job you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life.” Our school is more than an educational institution; it’s a vibrant community where positive relationships and mutual support are paramount.
The connections we forge with our pupils extend beyond the classroom. Whether it’s sharing meals, celebrating their successes, or simply enjoying their company, these moments make our school community special. Our collective experiences, from school trips, assemblies, afternoon teas, and gala days to professional networking opportunities, not only contribute to our personal and professional growth but also enhance our ability to make meaningful contributions to the lives of our pupils.
Moreover, participating in networks such as the Independent Schools Association (ISA) and headteachers’ networking groups has further enriched my professional life. Through these, I have learned the importance of quality, continuous professional development for the staff of Tower College; this is imperative if we are always to be in a position to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
How Tower College Stays Ahead in a Changing World
Our school’s spirit of collaboration and mutual support is truly commendable. Faced with the challenges of a rapidly changing world, we stand united, leveraging our diverse strengths and skills to create a positive and enriching learning environment. The commitment of our staff to continuous professional development and improvement is a testament to the dynamic and forward-thinking culture at Tower College.
Compassion in Action
I am particularly proud of the charity initiatives led by our pupils and staff. These efforts reflect our community’s core values and dedication to making a tangible difference in the lives of those in need. Witnessing the positive impact of these actions reinforces the importance of service and compassion in our educational journey.
Thank you for your unwavering support and for being an integral part of our school’s journey. I am excited for you to explore our Easter Newsletter, which showcases our pupils and staff’s activities and remarkable achievements and Tower College as a place where education transcends academic learning to include personal growth, community involvement, and the development of lifelong values.
May this Easter bring joy and relaxation to you and your loved ones.
Ms Bingley
New Playground and Outdoor Developments
From Dreams to Reality: Children’s Ideas Shape Future Playground
We are thrilled to share some wonderful news about the ongoing developments along the playground area beside Mill Lane. A new playground area is being developed in our continuous effort to enhance the school’s facilities and provide an enriching environment for our pupils. This space is dedicated to our youngest learners: Tower Tots, EYFS, and Lower School children.
One of the most endearing aspects of this project has been our children’s involvement in the planning process. Understanding the importance of hearing our pupils’ voices, Mr. Morgan took a significant step by meeting with them and listening to their ideas and what they envision for their new playground.
The redevelopment process is now well underway. It promises a playground thoughtfully designed with the needs and safety of Tower Tots, EYFS, and Lower School children in mind. The designs reflect the ideas shared by the pupils, promising a playground as imaginative and diverse as the children themselves.
We understand the anticipation and excitement surrounding the new playground, and we are committed to keeping you updated throughout this journey. Our pupils’ involvement in this project reflects our educational philosophy that values the pupil’s voice. By involving them in such projects, our children become active participants in their learning environment, which promotes a sense of community and belonging.
Sprouting New Beginnings: The Forest School’s Vegetable Planters Initiative
In an inspiring collaboration that underscores the essence of community and environmental education, the Forest School has embarked on a verdant journey! With the introduction of new vegetable planters, the school has rooted its commitment to hands-on learning, sustainability, and nurturing green thumbs in our pupils.
The project was born from a vision shared by our dedicated Forest School teacher, Mr Devine, who recognizes the immense value of teaching pupils about the natural world and the vital role they play within it. The aim was precise: to provide a tangible way for pupils to engage with growing vegetables and plants, understand life’s cycle, and the importance of caring for our environment.
A meeting was convened with Mr Devine and the maintenance team to bring this vision to life. The meeting was a fertile ground for ideas, culminating in deciding the optimal size and location for the vegetable planters. The selected spot promised ample sunlight and space, ideal for various vegetables and herbs thriving.
Over a week, Mr Barber, our groundsman, with help from the maintenance team, transformed raw materials into beautifully crafted beds, ready to nurture seeds into seedlings and plants.
To ensure this initiative was as sustainable as it was educational, the maintenance team took on the challenge of sourcing the most cost-effective materials. Their diligence ensured that the project remained within budget without compromising on quality. This thoughtful approach demonstrates fiscal responsibility and instils in our pupils the value of resourcefulness and stewardship.
The final piece of the puzzle was the soil. Over two days, the team moved eight tonnes of soil. This herculean effort was about preparing the beds for planting and sowing the seeds of community and collaboration among all involved.
As these planters take root, they represent more than just a new addition to our school’s landscape. They are a living classroom where lessons in science, responsibility, and environmental awareness can flourish. They symbolize what we can achieve when we come together and remind us of the importance of nurturing plants and young minds.
Exciting New Outdoor Shelter Coming This April!
Another exciting development promises to transform our outdoor space into a community hub. Stemming from a recent Pupil Voice meeting led by Mr Morgan and Mr Barr, with the spirited participation of our upper and middle school pupils, a groundbreaking project is set to come to life during the April half-term.
Our pupils strongly desired enhanced outdoor provisions, specifically more seating and shelter, to make outdoor breaks enjoyable, even in less-than-perfect weather. They envisioned a place where camaraderie and relaxation go hand in hand, asking for picnic benches to gather and chat. Moreover, they highlighted a keen interest in incorporating outdoor equipment, like table tennis.
With these valuable insights, Mr Morgan designed a canopy and located an area. The forthcoming shelter isn’t just a structure; it’s a testament to the school’s commitment to listening to our pupils and involving them in decisions that affect their daily lives. This initiative underscores the importance of creating functional, enriching, and enjoyable spaces for all.
This shelter will provide a comfortable space for pupils to gather during wet breaks and serve as a reminder of what we can achieve when we come together, listen, and act on the collective voice of our school community.
Our School Library – Reading is Power
Our beautiful library continues to play a central role in helping the children gain skills, knowledge and a love of reading.
It has been wonderful to see so many of our Middle School pupils using the library and enjoying the comfortable and relaxed environment to support their reading journeys this term. We have many fiction texts encouraging pupils to read various materials, from novels to poetry. The library promotes the importance of reading for pleasure, which helps pupils understand that reading is an important element of their learning.
Our Year 9 Librarians, Isabelle, Katy, and Leighora, play an essential role in supporting the library. They help with day-to-day organisation and have a voice in the library’s operations. Thank you so much for your commitment to promoting our library as an integral part of school life.
Next term, the library will develop its support for all curriculum areas and subjects with a new “Rise to the Challenge” section. This will provide access to challenging, high-quality information resources and encourage independent study skills.
Thank you to our wonderful school Librarian, Mrs Corcoran, for making the library a nurturing and relaxing space and making such a positive contribution to the life of our school. We are looking forward to seeing even more of you enjoying the library next term!
Mrs Christian
Our School Catering Team is Raising the Bar!
Over the past year, the transformation in the quality and variety of the meals has been nothing short of miraculous. It’s a testament to our catering team’s hard work, creativity, and commitment. Their efforts to elevate the dining experience have not gone unnoticed, and I want to acknowledge how much we appreciate it as a school community. The food has improved over the past 12 months, and it’s clear that a lot of thought and care goes into planning and preparing each meal.
But what makes lunchtime truly special is the food and the people who serve it. Their friendly and welcoming nature makes lunchtime an even more enjoyable part of our day. It’s always a pleasure to be greeted with their warm smiles as they serve our meals, making the children and staff feel valued and cared for.
One of our dining experience highlights is the incredible variety of dishes. The catering team goes above and beyond to ensure there’s always something for everyone, catering to a wide range of tastes and dietary needs. It’s like having restaurant-quality food right here at our school!
Celebrating Success: A New Vision for the Towering Above Programme
Miss Midgley and Mrs Poole’s vision has elevated the standards for our pupils through the Towering Above Programme (TAP). Through extensive research and collaboration with Mrs Poole, Miss Midgley has formulated a supportive and challenging programme catering to pupils’ academic prowess and individual interests.
TAP is meticulously designed to offer a personalized educational experience to every pupil it embraces. Introducing project packs, which pupils can take home, complements the enriching activities hosted in the weekly lunchtime club. These initiatives allow pupils to explore their interests deeply and challenge themselves beyond the classroom environment.
In a true spirit of fairness, Miss Midgley developed a formalized referral process which integrates assessment data, subject-specific criteria, and teacher nominations, ensuring that every selection is thoroughly evidenced and equitable.
One of the most notable achievements is the creation of Individual Challenge Plans. These plans are a cornerstone of the TAP, offering pupils clear and targeted pathways to extend their learning and refine their skills.
A few words from Miss Midgley
As the Spring Term draws to a close, Tower College has again lived up to its tradition of excellence and inclusivity through the Towering Above Programme. This term, the programme was marked by two spectacular events: the first round of the annual Child Genius competition and the much-anticipated Tower College Exhibition. These events highlighted our pupils’ diverse talents and hard work and brought them together to celebrate their achievements.
Unleashing Potential: The Child Genius Competition
The Lower School buzzed with excitement as it hosted the first round of the annual Child Genius competition. True to the spirit of inclusivity, the competition welcomed all pupils from Year 1 to Year 6, providing a platform to show their brilliance in various fields, including maths, general knowledge, music, and problem-solving. The competition was a testament to the exceptional talent and hard work of our pupils, culminating in the selection of outstanding finalists: Adaline (Year 1), Alesha (Year 2), Saoirse (Year 3), Rihaana (Year 4), Deah (Year 5), and Alfie (Year 6).
As we eagerly anticipate the finals, set to take place upon our return to school, we look forward to our pupils tackling age-appropriate and challenging questions in their areas of expertise and chosen specialisms. The final promises to be a grand affair, with participants demonstrating their knowledge and skills in front of a large audience.
A Celebration of Creativity: The Tower College Exhibition
The Towering Above Programme also celebrated creative talent through the Tower College Exhibition. Children from Year 1 to Year 6 displayed their creative project work alongside their exceptional submissions for the Young Writers’ Winter Wonderland Poetry Competition and The Young Artists’ Summer Show.
The excitement continues upon our return, with more competitions and events lined up. Among these is the eagerly awaited Tower’s Got Talent Show, promising another round of outstanding performances and displays of skill.
Here’s to a future filled with achievements, creativity, and the pursuit of knowledge. Congratulations to all our brilliant finalists and participants.
Miss Midgley
Lower School PHSE and International Women’s Day
This term, our focus has been on the theme of “Living in the Wider World,” explicitly exploring British Values and their significance.
It has been heartening to witness the engagement and understanding displayed by the pupils when discussing British Values both in and out of the classroom. Their eagerness to learn and share opinions on this topic has been commendable. I am delighted to see how they have embraced the values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect, and tolerance of those with different beliefs.
Our PSHE displays around the school proudly showcase the exceptional work produced by the children, reflecting their creativity, understanding, and appreciation of the concepts covered in this term’s lessons.
In addition to exploring British Values, we recently celebrated International Women’s Day. The pupils were encouraged to participate in a competition to promote this important event and highlight women’s inspirational role in society. Their entries were a testament to their awareness and appreciation of the contributions made by women to our world.
Teaching PSHE at Lower School is a privilege, and I am continually impressed by the enthusiasm and thoughtful contributions of the pupils in this subject. PSHE provides a valuable platform for children to express their thoughts, share their opinions, and develop their understanding of themselves and the world around them.
Thank you for your continued support in reinforcing these important lessons at home. Your input is crucial in helping the children consolidate their learning and apply these principles daily.
Mrs Gannon
Empowering Future Generations: Our Innovative Approach to Career Readiness
Navigating Futures Together
Our Year 10 and 11 pupils have had the chance to participate in 1:1 interviews with me (Careers Lead), where they received valuable guidance and advice on their career paths. Additionally, all Year 11 students participated in mock interviews with two external businesses, followed by a feedback session on their CVs. These experiences have helped our students gain confidence and develop crucial interview skills. Our Year 11 pupils have also taken part in taster days at Cronton College and Carmel College, where they have fully immersed themselves in college life, studying subjects they hope to take in September. This experience has given pupils a taste of what to expect as they start the next step of their educational journey after Tower College. During the last week of term, Year 10 and 11 students attended the National Apprenticeships and Education Event at the Etihad Stadium. This event provided valuable information and insights into various apprenticeship opportunities, helping our pupils make informed decisions about their future.
From Pages to Predators: Lower School Broadens Horizons with Author Visit and Upcoming Safari Park Enterprise Day
Lower School recently had the pleasure of welcoming a local author to our school. The author not only shared stories and insights into various professions but also encouraged a love for literacy and science. It was an inspiring event that broadened our students’ horizons and encouraged them to pursue their passions. In addition, our Lower School pupils are eagerly looking forward to an upcoming enterprise day at Knowsley Safari Park. They will have the chance to learn about animal detectives and explore various roles within the safari park. This hands-on experience will enhance their knowledge of different career paths and ignite their curiosity.
National Careers Week Sparks Future Aspirations
During National Careers Week, Tower Tots and Lower School pupils could express their creativity and dress up as their preferred profession. This fun and engaging activity sparked conversations about various careers, helping our young learners to think about their future aspirations. For our middle and upper school pupils, we organised a careers convention where our pupils could participate in workshops on topics such as robotics and quirky designs. We talked to professionals from various fields, such as architects, rugby players, authors, medics, solicitors, and artists. Pupils had the opportunity to ask the professionals questions, which sparked some interesting conversations about their aspirations for the future. Our Lower School pupils also listened to an A&E Doctor, a Policewoman and a dentist. During the afternoon, local colleges and universities attended our careers fayre, where pupils could discuss potential courses and entry requirements. The convention was a fantastic platform for pupils to explore their interests and broaden their knowledge.
Breaking Barriers: Pupils Learn from Top Female Police Officer on International Women’s Day
To celebrate International Women’s Day and Careers, pupils in Years 9, 10, and 11 had the privilege of listening to DCI Hobin, who spoke about inspiring female leaders and her role within the police force, outlining the steps she took to get to where she is today. Her talk encouraged our pupils to aim high and break barriers in their chosen careers. These experiences will inspire our pupils to dream big and pursue careers that ignite their passions.
Miss Riley
Embracing Nature’s Classroom: Our Journey in Forest School Education
Our Forest School promotes resilience, integrity, scholarship, and enrichment. In line with this ethos, our program has been a beacon of experiential learning, igniting curiosity and nurturing a deep connection with nature.
Embracing Nature’s Classroom Across All Levels: A Tapestry of Forest School Adventures
Pupils in all departments have embarked on a journey of discovery and connection with the natural world. They have immersed themselves in a rich tapestry of activities, each designed to awaken their senses and ignite their curiosity.
From a nature scavenger hunt to the tranquillity of mindful nature meditation, our pupils have embraced every opportunity to engage with the wonders of Tower College’s grounds. They’ve delved into the intricate world of tree identification, traced the delicate veins of leaves to create art, and honed their survival skills through shelter building.
Amidst the rustle of leaves and birds chirping, our students have woven stories under the open sky, using outdoor storytelling as a tool for expression and learning. Under the dappled shade of towering trees, they’ve practised the art of forest yoga, finding harmony and peace amidst the chaos of modern life. With bug hunting and building bug hotels, they’ve learned to appreciate the intricate balance of ecosystems, fostering a deep sense of environmental stewardship.
From identifying plants to crafting intricate nature art and crafts, our students have honed their skills and nurtured creativity. They’ve practised the art of rope and knot skills, paving the way for future adventures in the great outdoors. Through the use of stones, they’ve unlocked the power of imagination.
But our Forest School journey is not just about exploration and discovery—it’s also about instilling values of resilience and community. Our students have learned to work together, overcome challenges, and celebrate victories through outdoor games and forest obstacle courses.
As we plant the seeds of knowledge and growth, both figuratively and literally, our pupils embark on a journey of stewardship and sustainability. With tree planting initiatives and a dedication to environmental conservation, they become guardians of the earth, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the wonders of nature.
Enrichment Beyond Measure
Every Friday afternoon, our Forest School Enrichment class becomes a sanctuary of learning and growth. Pupils have immersed themselves in many activities that resonate with the rhythm of nature; each experience has been a brushstroke on the canvas of their holistic development.
Nurturing Growth, Planting Dreams
Tower College’s commitment to environmental stewardship extends beyond the classroom. With the completion of our new raised beds for vegetable growing, built with thanks and appreciation to our maintenance team, students have embarked on a journey of cultivation. The inaugural group of Year 9 pupils planted seeds on March 14th, marking a symbolic step towards sustainability and growth.
Weathering the Elements: Building Resilience
As the winds of change swept through Autumn, Winter, and the early days of Spring, the Forest School programme stood firm in its resolve to embrace the elements. Despite unseasonably wet weather, the Forest School activities continued unabated. Through these challenges, our pupils learned the invaluable lesson of resilience, embracing the British weather with fortitude and grace.
A Testament to Resilience
The resilience demonstrated by our students has been nothing short of remarkable. They have embraced every moment of their outdoor learning journey, embodying the spirit of Tower College. As we usher in the warmth of Spring, let us reflect on these moments of perseverance and look forward to basking in the sunshine of future successes.
Tower College’s Social Media
In the spirit of our commitment to community engagement, we encourage all parents to stay connected with Tower College through our social media channels. There, you will find continued updates and glimpses into the enriching experiences unfolding within our new Forest School and Horticulture provision. So, please keep your eyes peeled and your screens tuned in as we embark on this exciting journey together. Your support and involvement are invaluable as we nurture a generation of resilient, environmentally conscious leaders.
Mr Devine
British Science Week Poster Winners
We are delighted to announce the British Science Week poster competition winners. From Lower School, the winner is Emily from Year 3 with a fact-filled felt combination. We have a lovely natural, pastel scene from Middle School with some interesting facts by Freya in year 7. I will submit these outstanding contributions to the official British Science Week poster competition. Thank you all for your brilliant work!
Mr Thorn
