Dear Parents and  Carers,

As we approach half term, I hope Year 2 students are finding the rhythm of college life and enjoying their studies. It has been pleasing to see so many students maintaining excellent attendance and showing dedication to their progression plans.

Autumn Update

I can thoroughly recommend our Autumn Update as a joyful read filled with articles on what our incredible students and staff have been up to since the Spring. 

Reading Week

To ensure students continue to be set up for a successful Year 2, I want to remind you of the plans for Reading Week, which takes place from Monday, November 4th - Friday, November 8th, 2024. Year 2 students will not have their regular lessons but will be provided with study materials to work on independently. This is a great opportunity for Year 2 students to prepare themselves for the challenges that practice exams and final assessments bring. Those students who have coursework elements will also be especially busy. During Reading week there are a number of external exams taking place including GCSE English and Maths. We wish all students taking resitting their exams the very best of luck.   Our library is open during Reading Week, 5th, 6th & 7th November from 10:30- 4:30. In addition, if any student would like to use another space, arrangements can be made to come on-site. Please contact us at: information@varndean.ac.uk.

There are also several workshops and activities on top of their studies as outlined below:

• Progression Focus: Year 2 students will be given study materials to complete during Reading Week. In addition, those applying to university should use this time to finalise their UCAS applications. HE Mentors will continue to email students with individual appointments during the week, so please ensure you are available.
• Personal Statement Workshops: The Careers Team is offering personal statement workshops throughout the week, as well as a session on Apprenticeships and Degree Apprenticeships on Wednesday, November 6th at 2pm in Room 63. Students will receive a Google Form for sign-up.
• Work Experience: All Year 2 students should have completed their work experience, which needs to be logged on Unifrog. If they haven't yet completed it, there is a guide HERE to help to how to record any work experience completed already or during  Reading Week

I also want to take this opportunity to apologise for the recent issues with the new toilet facilities. We will be fixing these over the half term break and they will be fully operational when students return.

If you have any questions or would like further information, please feel free to get in touch at parents@varndean.ac.uk. We will respond to your queries after the half term break. Our front office will remain open during the half term break, so if you have any urgent inquiries, please reach out to information@varndean.ac.uk. Information on upcoming dates next term is in our Parent/Carer Guide. 

Thank you once again for your continued support. We are looking forward to welcoming students back after the half term break and Reading Week. 

In the meantime please accept my wishes for a lovely half term break, whatever you are doing. 

Best wishes,

Donna-Marie Janson
Principal, Varndean College