Concluding the first month of back-to-school, we can all agree that beginning the academic year is typically a stressful time for everyone. Whether it be the year 7s being in a new school and going from seniors to juniors, the year 11s and 13s having to realise they need to try applying themselves further in the start to building up to exams, year 12s getting their first main piece of independence, teachers going back to mountains of paperwork and everyone dealing with back to school traffic. Creating a positive working environment, benefitting everyone, the Sixth Form Centre typically boasts a light mood.

So to introduce said light mood this week, during Wednesday lunchtime, in the Sixth Form Centre, we had the pleasure to celebrate our Executive Principal’s, Jeremy Turner’s, birthday. Our Sixth Form Staff kindly organised a mini surprise with many students singing happy birthday to him, sharing out cake to said students and putting up balloons.

Further stress-free and enjoyable moments in the school this year will include (that as Oak’s Student Head of House I should mention), House Arts on Tuesday the 2nd of December. This great opportunity includes both participation and overall prizes. As well as being a good moment to build confidence and showcase your interests and skills.

Overall, the enjoyment you get from any activities you participate in is a result of the sum of your effort and attitude. I would like to wish you all a continued strong start to the year, especially after how great this first month was.

-Aryan 13 Willow, Student Head of House