Dear Parents and Carers,

I am writing this week with great pride following the recent publication of the official government performance tables for both GCSE and Sixth Form results.

These excellent results are a testament to the dedication and sustained hard work of our students and the focused support they receive from our committed teaching staff. We are pleased to share this news as it proves that our belief in being a nurturing and supportive school goes hand in hand with securing strong academic outcomes.

Our Sixth Form achieved excellent headlines, placing us in the top 25 per cent of the country for average grade, the percentage of A* to A grades and the percentage of A* to C grades. Our average point score for the best three A-levels also significantly surpassed the national figure.

At GCSE level, our average Attainment 8 grade sits strongly at 50.7, meaning our students achieved grades between a Grade 5 and 6 on average. This figure significantly surpasses the national average for state-funded schools, confirming our consistent position as a provider of high academic achievement. Our performance is consistently in line with that of other Wokingham schools, while significant exceeding the average performance of similar schools in the Reading area.

This collective success reinforces the value of our whole-school approach. We share this news so that you, our parents, can also share in the pride of our community’s high achievement.

I wish you all a lovely, restful half term and look forward to welcoming students back on Monday 3rd November.

Amanda Woodfin
Headteacher

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Upcoming Events

w/c 27th Oct – Half Term Holidays
Mon 3rd Nov – Year 8 prestation on the dangers of vaping and smoking (in school)
Tue 4th Nov – Year 7 “meet the tutor” online meetings
Wed 5th Nov – Bulmershe Careers Fair
Thu 6th Nov – Bulmershe Sixth Form Open Evening
Tue 11th Nov – Whole School Remembrance (in school)
Thu 13th Nov – Year 7 and Year 11 School Photos

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Parent Survey Feedback

Thank you to the 109 parents who took the time to complete our recent pulse survey. Your feedback is highly valued and helps us ensure we are meeting the needs of our students and families.

The overall results are overwhelmingly positive, confirming that the vast majority of parents are happy with the education and care their children receive at the school:

• 97 per cent of parents say their child is happy at school.
• 96 per cent of parents say their child feels safe.
• 95 per cent of parents would recommend the school to another family.

We are particularly pleased that so many parents recognised the commitment of our staff, with many positive comments about support and communication, including the specific work of our Oasis and Signal teams in supporting neurodiverse students.

You Said, We Did

We are taking direct action on the key areas for development identified in the survey:

• We are reviewing our processes to ensure parents receive timely responses.
• We are working with students to find out which clubs they would most like to see offered.
• We are publishing more curriculum information on our website to keep families informed about what their child is learning.

We understand the desire to bring back face-to-face parents’ evenings. However, we have found that attendance and overall satisfaction have improved since moving online, as it provides greater flexibility for parents. We have increased opportunities to meet us in person through events like pastoral coffee mornings and curriculum evenings instead.

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Spotlight on Languages

Supporting learning at home

Learning a new language thrives on consistent practice. Even a few minutes of revision each day, whether it’s listening to a song or using an app, can significantly boost your child’s confidence and skills in Spanish or French.

Our Languages Department encourages students to use a range of free online resources to supplement their classroom learning.

• For Key Stage 3 (Years 7–9): Students can build core confidence and vocabulary using interactive platforms like Seneca and Duolingo. Duolingo allows students to join the school’s league to compete for achievement points. For a fun way to practise listening and pronunciation, LyricsTraining turns popular French and Spanish songs into games.
• For Key Stage 4 (Years 10–11): Revision becomes more focused for GCSE students. Seneca offers dedicated GCSE courses covering complex grammar and topic vocabulary. BBC Bitesize provides reliable, exam-focused materials, and students should be encouraged to use Edexcel Past Papers to prepare for assessments.

Parents can help most effectively by establishing a routine and encouraging them to practice little and often. Simply asking what they’ve learned is a great way to reinforce their knowledge!

A full guide, including specific links for each resource, is available on the MFL page of the school website for you to explore.

European Day of Languages

We’d like to share that the winners of our European Day of Languages (EDoL) inter-form competition enjoyed their prize this week! Students earned this treat by successfully completing a whole-school quiz that tested their knowledge of different languages and cultures. The winning students were rewarded with a delicious breakfast, celebrating their excellent language skills and enthusiasm for linguistic diversity.

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Explosive fun with Cobra Weaves

This week, Science Club was all about teamwork and energy, as our Year 7s and 8s took on the fun challenge of building a Cobra Weave using simple wooden lollipop sticks.

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Sports Update

It’s been a very busy and successful week for sport at Bulmershe, showcasing commitment and excellent competition across the year groups.

Year 10 Netball

Our Year 10 Netball Team recently completed a strong season in the Wokingham League. They played 13 games, securing 11 wins, one draw and recording just one loss. The girls consistently demonstrated brilliant teamwork and maintained excellent sportsmanship throughout every game. We want to thank captains Eloise and Lucia for their outstanding work organising the team and leading their teammates during a highly successful season.

Year 8 Inter-form Football

Tuesday’s Year 8 Football Tournament delivered intense competition right up to the final whistle. The tournament was split across two leagues. League A was incredibly close, with 8XM taking the top spot, narrowly edging out 8XU on points difference. They repeated this strong performance in League 1, also finishing first. The tournament climaxed with a gripping final that saw both teams play with skill and determination. With the score level until the final few minutes, 8XM produced a late goal to claim the Year 8 Championship title.

Year 9 Inter-form Football

Wednesday’s Year 9 Inter-form 5-a-Side Football Tournament was an action-packed event from start to finish. The round-robin stage featured many tightly contested matches where every team gave their all. It was great to see the players focused on competition while still showing respect and teamwork. The final came down to Form 9XM and 9XL, and after a thrilling, hard-fought match, 9XM emerged as the tournament champions.

We appreciate the effort and enthusiasm shown by all students who took part this week. It was a shame we had to postpone the Year 7 tournament – but this will be held after half term.

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Spooky surprises in the Bulmershe Library!

The Bulmershe Library is getting into the spooky spirit this week! Our dedicated Student Library Assistants stayed after school on Tuesday to create a fantastic Halloween display to celebrate the season.

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Big Sleep Out Fundraiser

A group of Year 9 students and teachers are bravely taking part in The Big Sleep Out, a fundraising event organised by the local homeless charity, Launchpad Reading. They will be hunkering down on the cold pavement outside PE from 7pm tonight.

The Big Sleep Out encourages participants to sleep outside at Reading Abbey (or at home) for one night to gain a small, safe insight into the harsh realities faced by people experiencing homelessness.

For our Year 9 Design and Technology students, this experience is particularly relevant as they are currently completing projects focused on homelessness and shelter. The Sleep Out provides a meaningful way for them to explore and appreciate the challenge of shelter before making their own design choices.

Please show your support by sponsoring our team today – every donation will help Launchpad Reading support local people facing homelessness.

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Year 9 students master batch cooking

This term, our Food Leadership and Challenge students have been focused on essential life skills, including the benefits of batch cooking and preparing nutritious meals. This practical work ensures our young people leave school with the ability to cook healthy food affordably.

Well done to all students involved in this important module: Maheen A, Taliyah B, Zara C, Darcy C, Lacey C, Jess C, Jennifer H, Olivia H, Aqsa K, Isra K, Kasia M, Mehru-un-nisa M, Shaina M, Robyn P and Freya-Roase S.

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Production appeal: The Addams Family costumes & props

This week’s call is for 2 hooded black cloaks and 2 long handed plastic scythes…!!
If you happen to have such items in your Halloween boxes you could donate or lend, we’d be very grateful.

We are also still in need of Candlesticks and Candelabras: of any shape, size or colour.

If you have any of these items you can spare, please drop them off at Reception when you can over the next week or so. Thank you in advance for helping the school!

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Year 8 workshop: vaping and nicotine addiction

On Monday 3 November, all Year 8 students will participate in a Personal Development workshop titled “Hooked,” focused on preventing nicotine and vaping addictions.

Developed with guidance from Public Health Specialists and the NHS, the workshop uses hard-hitting drama to positively challenge attitudes and explore the potential consequences of addiction, risk-taking behaviour and peer pressure.

The session is designed to:

• Raise awareness of the dangers of nicotine.
• Create real-life strategies to overcome peer pressure around vaping and smoking.

Pastoral staff are fully aware of the content and will be available to support any students who wish to discuss what they have seen.

Parents can support this learning by having open conversations at home. Resources on the dangers of vaping and smoking can be found via the NHS and Smokefree Life websites.

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The Law on E-Scooters and E-Bikes in Public

As the Christmas period approaches, please ensure you and your children are aware of the rules before considering E-Scooters and E-bikes as gifts.

The Law on E-Scooters and E-Bikes

• Private E-Scooters are Illegal in Public: Privately owned electric scooters are legally classified as motor vehicles. This means they require tax, insurance and an MOT – none of which is currently possible to obtain. They cannot be used on public roads, pavements, or public paths. They can only be used on private land with the landowner’s permission.
• Rental E-Scooters (Trial Areas Only): You can only use rental e-scooters in specific trial areas if you are over 16 and hold a valid driving licence (full or provisional).
• E-Bikes: Electric bikes (or EAPCs) are legal to ride only if they meet certain requirements (e.g., maximum 250W motor, maximum speed of 15.5mph and the rider is aged 14 or over). If an e-bike exceeds these limits, it is classed as a moped and requires registration, a licence, insurance and a helmet.

Risks and Enforcement

Using these e-bikes illegally leads to serious risks, including accidents, fire hazards and theft. Thames Valley Police will be increasing their enforcement patrols around school drop-off and pick-up times.

• Consequences: Illegal e-scooters or e-bikes will be seized and destroyed under Section 165 of the Road Traffic Act.
• Parental Responsibility: Parents can face fines and endorsements on their driving licence for allowing their children to ride them illegally. Thames Valley Police also now complete child safeguarding referrals for any child found in possession of an illegal conveyance.

We urge all parents to discuss these serious legal and safety issues with their children.

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Shout Outs

On a Friday we like to shine a spotlight on those who deserve a thank you or have done well over the past week. If you would like to nominate your child, or a member of staff, please use our nomination email address: HeadsPA@bulmershe.wokingham.sch.uk.

Student Shout Outs

Mrs Senthilkumar: I would like to shout out Isla E (Y7) for her excellent work in Python programming. She demonstrated a clear understanding of the key concepts and consistently took responsibility for her own learning. Isla also followed instructions diligently, showing great initiative and focus throughout the session.

Mr Allen: Shout out to all the Y10, Y11, Y12 and Y13 Maths students who participated in the Senior Maths Challenge. Special mention to Alex J (Y10), Cassia C (Y12), Renee R (Y12), Peter M (Y12) and Holly P (Y13) who achieved the Gold Award and an invitation to the next round of the Maths Challenge! Well done all!

Staff Shout Outs

Mrs Toms: A massive hug and best wishes to Buddy as he heads off on his well-deserved sabbatical. We’ll all miss him dearly.

Mrs Ambrose: A huge shout out to Mr Whearity for sharing such a personal story in assembly this week – your courage and openness are truly inspiring!

Parent Shout Out

Thank you to the year 11 teachers who have gone the extra mile supporting with additional revision sessions this term. Having these communicated in advance has been especially helpful.

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Cucina Main Meals – w/c 3rd November

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What’s On

Woodley’s Climate Action Week

Woodley Town Council is kicking off its Climate Action Week with a dedicated launch day featuring three free community events for local residents. On Saturday, 26 October, families can get involved by joining the Community Litter Pick in the morning, attending the sustainable Charity Fashion Show at lunchtime, or participating in the “Voice the Change” community conversation in the afternoon. The afternoon session includes a keynote talk by a University of Reading Professor on climate science. For specific timings, locations, and essential booking links for each event, please visit the Woodley Town Council website.

Free what drives behaviour webinar

The Complete Education Solution (TCES)  is offering a free webinar to parents, carers, professionals alike to look beyond behaviours to see what a child may be communicating, unmet needs, stress or more and learn to respond with support.

📅 Date: Wednesday, 5th November
⏰ Time: 3:30pm – 4:30pm

By joining, you will gain:

• A new, compassionate lens for understanding behaviour as communication
• Tools to spot patterns and triggers, helping reduce stress and conflict at home or in school
• Practical techniques to support emotional regulation and strengthen relationships
• More confidence in responding calmly, building connection instead of confrontation

AWE Engineering Taster Day

AWE (Atomic Weapons Establishment) is offering a free Level 3 Engineering Taster Day during October half-term for Year 11, 12, and 13 students interested in STEM and apprenticeships.

This is a great chance for students to discover real engineering careers, meet current apprentices, and take part in hands-on activities related to their Level 3 roles.

The event is held on Thursday 28th October, with three time slots available. Register here

AWE also offers free parent sessions to help families understand apprenticeship opportunities. These talks can help parents feel more confident guiding their children toward future careers. Contact CommunityandSchools@awe.co.uk to find out more.

Dinton Activity Centre Half Term

f you are looking for ways to keep your children active and entertained this October half-term, Dinton Activity Centre is running its popular Wild Days Holiday Club for 8 to 14 year olds.

The club runs from Monday 27 to Friday 31 October and offers action-packed adventures, including kayaking, archery, climbing, fire lighting, and shelter building.

Key Information:

• Activities: Kayaking, Archery, Climbing, and more.
• Ages: 8 to 14 years old.
• Options: Full-day (£54) or half-day (£27) bookings available.
• Extras: Wrap-around care, lunch, and childcare vouchers are accepted.

Spaces are limited, so visit the Dinton Activity Centre website for the full schedule and to book

Local Halloween Activities for Half Term

• Pumpkin Hunt at Dinton Pastures – daily from 25 October to 2 November
• Pumpkin Fair at Dinton Pastures – Sunday 26 October
• Pumpkin Hunt at California Country Park – daily from 27 October to 2 November
• Halloween Fun Day at California Country Park – Tuesday 28 October
• Pumpkin Tea at the Coffee House, Dinton Pastures – 29 and 30 October
• Halloween Biscuit Decorating at Dinton Activity Centre – 29 October
• Laser Light Show at Dinton Pastures- Sunday 2 November
• Indoor climbing sessions (weekends only)

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Parents of Year 9 – Year 13: let your children know Hado London will be at the Bulmershe Careers Fair after Half Term!

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