Dear Parents and Carers,

As we approach half term, I hope Year 2 students are finding the rhythm of returning to 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 looking at our Autumn Update where you can read about the incredible achievements of our students and staff last summer term and this term. From our Creative Arts Showcase and our exceptional IB, A Level and vocational results, to our impressive range of achievements, awards and college trips.

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 3rd November - Friday 7th November. 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 their exams the very best of luck.

There are also several progression workshops and talks taking place during Reading Week, details of which are outlined below:

Mon 3rd November

10:30am : Personal Statement Workshop - Room 70

2pm : Student Finance talk and Q&A - online (link to follow)

Weds 5th November

2pm : UCAS Education Section Session + Q&A - Room 70

3:30pm : Personal Statement Writing Workshop - Room 70

Thursday 6th November

10:30am : Apprenticeships/Degree Apprenticeships - online (link to follow)

1pm : UCAS Application genel Q&A - online (link to follow)

Looking ahead â?¦

There will also be a 'Hello Future' careers event taking place on Thursday 4 December at The Wing, (The Brighton Centre), where students can meet industry experts and explore the world of work.Students can sign up through our Careers Department.

Library

Our library is open during Half Term on Monday 27th and Tuesday 28th October from 10am - 4pm and during Reading Week on Monday 3rd, Wednesday 5th & Thursday 6th November from 10am - 4pm.

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 main reception office will remain open during the half-term break, so if you have any urgent queries, please reach out to information@varndean.ac.uk.

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 best wishes for a lovely half-term break, whatever you are doing.

Best wishes,

Donna-Marie Janson
Principal, Varndean Sixth Form College