Headmaster’s Welcome – Simon Hawkes, Headmaster
Dear Parents and Guardians,
The highlight of another action-packed week has almost certainly been this morning’s fabulous House Music competition. Talent was on show, for sure, but it was also great to see so many less experienced musicians doing their bit and braving the stage. House competitions offer the perfect opportunity for pupils to step out of their comfort zone, to demonstrate team spirit, and to develop confidence. Well done to all involved.
We’ve also spent time today welcoming prospective pupils for our second Assessment Day of the year, all hoping to join Wellingborough in September. It’s always good fun to meet and interview pupils thinking of joining us, whether it’s in Year 7, 9, or 12, but the most gratifying part of today’s programme has been watching our current students supporting, guiding, and hosting our guests. I’ve witnessed warmth and super leadership qualities on display and must admit to feeling a great deal of pride in the way our pupils support those hoping to join the Wellingborough community.
An exciting week lies ahead for Design and Engineering students – lessons will be in the Gateway building, so do ask them about the experience when they get home. And it also promises much for those in Year 12 lucky enough to be attending the Crime and Punishment Conference we are hosting for visiting schools on Tuesday. This is excellent academic enrichment, so keep your eyes out for news stories online after the event. I’ll also be seeing those of you with children in Year 9 at Thursday’s GCSE Options Evening, where our teachers will be on hand to inform and inspire as the pupils finalise those difficult, but important, academic decisions for next year.
And finally, this Monday at 8.30am we have our next ‘Informal Coffee Morning with Mr Hawkes’ event for current parents, hosted in the Spencer Room. This is essentially an excuse to come into school for a cup of coffee and an informal chat with me and other senior staff, so if you’d like to come along and haven’t already signed up, please do so via this link.
Best wishes.
Psychology Update – Carlie Woodard, Teacher of Psychology
The Lent term has begun with excellent academic engagement across the department. A highlight was our recent joint Psychology and Sociology trip to London. The morning was spent at the Old Bailey, where pupils observed live court proceedings, including cases involving charges of murder. This provided valuable insight into courtroom procedure, judicial roles and the real-world complexities behind the theories explored in both subjects.
In the afternoon we visited the Royal Courts of Justice, where we learnt about the historical development of the justice system and explored the traditional costumes worn in court, including the differences between the various judicial wigs. Throughout the day, pupils behaved superbly and made the most of the experience, asking thoughtful questions to deepen their understanding.
Back in school, lessons have continued productively. The Year 13s are making strong progress with Paper 3, developing the synoptic skills essential for linking ideas across the specification. Meanwhile, Year 12 have begun their new units on Learning and Biological Psychology. They have been investigating the functions of key brain regions and revisiting their GCSE knowledge of genetics and neurotransmission to strengthen the biological foundations needed for upcoming content. It has been a purposeful and energising start to the term, and I look forward to seeing students continue to build on this momentum.
Art Update – Charlotte Woodward, Head of Art & Photography
The Art & Photography Department enjoyed a vibrant and highly productive Michaelmas term, packed with creative enrichment across all key stages. As we move into spring, our focus now shifts to supporting exam students as they enter a crucial phase of their courses.
Enrichment through Artist Workshops & Exhibitions
Sixth Form Galleries Trip
In October our Art and Photography students enjoyed a trip to The Affordable Art Fair in Battersea, gathering inspiration from 100 leading contemporary galleries from all over the world before walking to the Tate Britain, where they were able to explore 500 years of British Art in the permanent display and temporary exhibitions of Lee Miller’s surrealist photography and the paintings of Edward Burra and Ithell Colquhoun. There were also opportunities to take photos whilst walking through Pimlico and Coal Drops Yard, the home of Central Saint Martins (University of the Arts London).
Year 11 Creative Workshops
In November our Art students worked with local feltmaker Heidi Street‑Ward, learning traditional wet‑felting techniques. Using fleece, dyed wool and carding tools, students designed felt images to support their coursework themes. The Photography students explored an exciting and rare process: photopolymer plate printing. Guided by printmaker Liam Biswell, students produced plates from their own photographic images, printing editions using inks and the printing press. The day resulted in strong, experimental portfolios and a real sense of professional practice.
Year 9 London Trip
In December, Art students enjoyed an inspiring day in London, beginning at The Courtauld Gallery, where they explored the Wayne Thiebaud exhibition alongside the gallery’s renowned permanent collection. The afternoon included cake photography in Covent Garden, providing playful inspiration for future projects – plus a memorable street performance highlight from Finn!
Wellingborough School Young Artists Showcase
We were proud to host the inaugural Young Artists Showcase in December, masterminded by Olivia. The event attracted 194 entries from six schools, and we were delighted to welcome Jessie Hillcox (OW), now Global Marketing Manager for Julian Chichester, who presented the awards.
Olivia was the overall Key Stage 3 winner and received a Highly Commended for a second entry. Olley, Jude, and Nathaniel were also awarded Highly Commended in the KS3 category.
Ben, Rose, and Gabriella achieved Highly Commended in the GCSE & A Level categories.
Rugby Open Exhibition
Congratulations to all students who submitted work, and particularly to Phoebe, Jamie, and Bethany in Year 12 and Gabriella, Chloe, Alice, and Tom in Year 13. Their work was selected for exhibition at Rugby Gallery, where it remains on display until 7 February 2026. Special congratulations to Hannah in Year 12, winner of the Rugby & District Art Society Youth Prize. Families still have time to view this impressive exhibition.
Year Groups Curriculum Update
In November, Year 13 students completed a practical mock exam, marking the beginning of their final coursework pieces. Their coursework submission deadline is 2 February, after which they will begin preparation for their final externally set exam projects.
Year 11 Art & Photography students have handed in their coursework and have now received their official GCSE exam papers. They are now developing a brand‑new project, drawing on skills acquired over the past 18 months, based on one of seven starting points. Students are responding enthusiastically, aware that strong preparation is the key to success.
Year 7 are exploring colour and texture through close‑up animal studies using oil pastels.
Year 8 have had great fun creating imaginative Alice in Wonderland‑inspired hat sculptures.
Year 9 have completed their textile “food packages” and are beginning to make clay cake sculptures inspired by Wayne Thiebaud.
Year 10 artists and photographers are working towards the completion of their portraiture mini‑projects before starting their sustained coursework projects based on structures.
Year 12 artists and photographers have begun to develop their individual Personal investigation themes following last term’s skills workshops. Thank you for your continued support of the Art & Photography Department. We look forward to an exciting and focused term ahead, encouraging and supporting creativity and ambition in all of our students.
Careers Weekly
Each year, Burns Night takes place on 25th January to celebrate the life and legacy of Scotland’s National Bard, Robert Burns. This week’s spotlight features writing-related careers and skills development opportunities.
Read this week’s Careers newsletter here.
Netball Results – Jess Costello, Head of Netball
Home Fixtures
- U14A: Loss 29–30 | POM: Hattie
- U14Bs: Loss 13–9 | POM: Gerry
- U13As: Loss 29–12
- U12As: Won 17–12 | POM: Chloe A.
Away Fixtures
- 1st Team: Won 29–28 | POM: Lucy and Connie
- 2nds: Loss 35–28
- U15As: Loss 40–29 | POM: Harriet
- U15Bs: Loss 18–4
There were some really competitive fixtures across all teams, and despite the challenging weather conditions at home, every girl had a fantastic start to the season.
Thank you to all staff for your support and commitment over the weekend.
Football Results – Jonathan Dean, Head of Football
17th Jan v King’s Ely:
- 1st XI won 3-1 (JAD & MTW)
- 2nd XI drew 0-0 (GEH)
- 3rd XI won 9-0 yes Nine (NPI)
- U15A lost 1-5 (LW)
- U15B lost 1-8 (ARE)
- U14A won 3-2 (CJH)
- U14B drew 1-1 (HTI)
- U13A drew 2-2 (MAF)
- U12A lost 1-4 (APA)
This was our first block fixture of the term. Great to get 9 teams playing fixtures in some pretty tricky weather conditions. As always, a really good fixture against Ely with all matches played in a sportsmanlike spirit. 3 wins, 3 draws and 3 defeats, so spoils even. We go again next week with our block fixture against St Edmunds College.
Music Exam Success – Liz Burleigh, Music School Administrator
Congratulations to Sebastian on gaining a merit in his Trinity Grade 4 trumpet exam this term.
Working Together to Keep Young People Safe
Recently, alarming reports have emerged about dangerous online networks sometimes called ‘com groups’ or ‘com networks’. While each group can be different, many share disturbing and coercive behaviour, encouraging or demanding self-harm, blackmail (including via intimate or personal data) and normalising violence, abuse or even suicidal behaviour.
This month’s newsletter explores how children can stay safe from ‘com groups’ and educates young people about the importance of consent.
Read the full safeguarding newsletter for this month here.
Summer Ball 2026 – Booking Open
Dear Parents, Governors, OWs, Staff, Friends and Family,
Wellingborough Senior School Parents’ Association has great pleasure in inviting you to attend this year’s Wellingborough School Summer Ball on Saturday 4th July 2026. As in previous years, this very popular event will take place at the School and is open to parents across the whole school, former parents, OWs, staff, governors, friends, family and Year 13 leavers. Year 13 leaver parents are particularly encouraged to attend with their leaver to celebrate the end of their time at Wellingborough School together.
Dress Code: Black tie
Food & Drinks
The evening will start at 6.30pm with drinks on the lawn, followed by a delicious three-course dinner prepared by the Executive Chef, Kirstie, and her awesome catering team.
Wine is available to pre-order to save you queuing. It will also be available on the night along with a fully stocked bar for cocktails and beer.
Entertainment
The school Blues Band will start off the evening at 6.30pm with their cool summer vibes.
For the main event we have the magnificent Matt Potter, of Potter Group, returning, supporting the incredibly talented local band Six Feet Apart.
In typical Summer Ball fashion there will be the usual Heads and Tails game, an auction with some amazing prizes and a chance to win other prizes with a raffle.
Tickets
Tickets can be purchased in any number, or you could purchase 10 tickets for a complete tale. We will also be collecting information about year groups so we can match similar year group parents where possible when creating tables. Please note that all communications regarding the evening will go to the person who books the tickets (Table Lead). You will be asked to make your meal choices when booking tickets (the menu can be viewed below) and let us know about any dietary requirements.
Click here to purchase your tickets.
Safeguarding Message: Frozen Water
Frozen lakes and rivers might look beautiful, but they’re extremely dangerous. People lose their lives every year when they venture onto the ice or attempt to rescue others. Recently, there has been a rise in incidents regarding young people getting into difficulty in ponds and lakes after going onto the ice.
The poster below includes safety details that will help you stay safe around these areas and what you should do if you do see someone fall.
Whole School Open Day – Book Now
Join us on Saturday, 7th March, from 9am, to explore Wellingborough Prep, Senior and Sixth Form.
You will be able to meet with our specialist subject teachers and explore our facilities and nurturing environment. While gaining a better understanding of what makes a Wellingborough education so special.
Click here for more information and to book your place.
Current pupils: Informal Coffee Morning/Afternoon with the Head
An opportunity for current pupils and their families to speak directly with Mr Hawkes and other senior members of staff at Wellingborough School.
You will have the chance to hear about what the year has in store for their child’s year group and ask any questions you may have.
Please see below the upcoming dates for different year groups:
- Years 7-10: Monday 26th January, 8:30-9:30am
- Year 11: Wednesday 28th January, 8:30-9:30am
We would love to get to know you better and hear how your child is finding life at Wellingborough School.
Click here to RSVP your place.
Prospective Families: Meet the Head
An opportunity for prospective pupils and their families to visit Wellingborough School to meet our Headmaster, Mr Hawkes, and other senior members of staff.
You will also have the chance to ask questions you may have about your child attending Wellingborough School and speak to other families that are also considering joining.
Please see below the upcoming dates for different year groups:
- Year 11 pupils looking at joining our Sixth Form: Wednesday 28th January, 8:30-9:30am
- Years 8-10 pupils looking at joining our Senior School: Thursday 5th February, 4:30-5:30pm
- Year 6 pupils looking to join for Year 7: Thursday 12th February, 4:30-5:30pm
Please RSVP your place to admissions@wellingboroughschool.org.
If you can’t make these dates, but would like to have a chance to meet Mr Hawkes, click here to view the upcoming sessions until March.
ISFA Shinpad Guidance
The ISFA has noticed the increase in the number of players choosing to wear micro shinpads when playing in competitive football matches. Several schools have also expressed their concerns about this practice.
Therefore, they have put together guidance and expectations for all players in relation to wearing shinpads. The purpose of this guidance is to ensure player safety and to provide clarity and consistency for schools, match officials and players across all ISFA competitions.
Stay Connected
To see more of what’s happening at Wellingborough School, follow us on social media here.
You can also explore upcoming events and activities on our Events Page here.
Wellingborough School Business Directory
Please find the Business Directory at the following link: https://wellingboroughschool.org/community/business-directory/
