Year 12 University visit – St. Andrews

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Recently, year 12 students Lucas and Alexandra had the opportunity to visit University of St Andrews, where they explored university life and learned more about future study opportunities in science-related subjects. They spoke to the whole school in a recent celebration assembly about their experience. The following is a summary of their talk:

The visit gave both students a valuable insight into the university’s historic campus, welcoming atmosphere, and wide range of academic courses. Lucas focused on Marine Biology and particularly enjoyed visiting the Scottish Oceans Institute, where he learned about marine ecosystems, conservation projects, and the practical fieldwork opportunities available due to the university’s coastal location.

Alexandra explored Biochemistry, learning about how the course develops from broad scientific study into more specialised areas over time. She was especially interested in hearing about research into medicines, diseases, and cell function, as well as seeing the university’s modern laboratories and facilities.

Both students found it inspiring to meet university staff and current students who shared their passion for science and explained how practical learning and research opportunities help prepare students for future careers. Overall, the trip provided an excellent insight into university life and helped students consider their future higher education pathways.

Thank you to Alexandra and Lucas for passing on their experiences.

KWS Student Council update

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It has been wonderful to hear the views of our student councillors in the latest round of council meetings over the last two weeks. The form representatives have brought feedback and ideas from their respective year groups to the table to discuss and debate. The meetings have been led expertly by our head students who look forward to feeding back to the whole school community very soon.

KWSixth year 11 into 12 – key dates for your diary

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It has been fantastic to see our Year 11 students working so hard in preparation for their GCSE examinations. We have also been delighted to see so many students making excellent use of the Sixth Form facilities throughout the school day and after school.

As students complete their exams, we are excited to begin the next stage of the transition process into KWSixth. We would like to remind students and families of the following key dates:

  • External Applicants’ Evening – Monday 8th June, 6:00pm-7:00pm
    Students interested in studying Performing Arts are invited to attend from 5:00pm. This event is just for students applying to KWSixth from other schools.
  • Sixth Form Induction Day – Friday 19th June
    This induction day is for all applicants, both internal and external, and will provide students with the opportunity to experience Sixth Form life, meet staff, and prepare for September.

We are really looking forward to welcoming so many brilliant students into the Sixth Form community and supporting them as they begin this exciting new chapter.

If anyone has any questions about the transition process into KWSixth please do not hesitate to ask a member of the sixth form team.

Please click here if you would like to find out more about the sixth form at KWS: KWSIXTH – Katherine Warington School

Herts Library Volunteers Needed!

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As the Spring half term holiday approaches, many of us are looking for signs of summer; surely it’s nearly here? In the Library the approach of summer reminds us that the Hertfordshire Summer Reading Challenge will be upon us before we know it. A favourite with Librarians everywhere, the Summer Reading challenge is run by the Hertfordshire Library Service, and it begins on the 4th July and runs through until 5th September. It’s a chance for young people to read books and then chat with a Library volunteer about what they’ve been reading to win awards, certificates and prizes. It’s a great way to keep children reading throughout the long summer holidays, and it’s been hugely successful over the past few years.

In order for the scheme to run successfully, it requires volunteers to give up their time over the summer to chat to the children about the books they’ve been enjoying, and to encourage them to pick another book to get to the next certificate or award. It may come as a surprise to you, but you only need to be aged 14 years or older to volunteer, and the younger children that come to speak to a volunteer often respond really well to a young adult, making your role really valuable to the Library service. So, if you can give some time over the summer, to help inspire the younger generation to “Read to the Beat” then why not apply to become a volunteer?

Please can you help….?

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The textiles department at KWS would be most grateful for any donations of tailors’ dummies, dress forms, mannequins or similar. If you feel that you can help, drop off can be made to KWS reception during our usual school working hours. If you have other items that you wonder if we can make use, of in either the DT workshop, Textiles workshop or Food room, I would be happy to receive emails to g.east@kwschool.co.uk

Thank you in advance,

Mrs East

Head of DT & Food

 

 

Relationship & Sex Education Policy

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As with all schools, here at KWS we are required to teach Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) as part of the new statutory guidance that starts from September 2026. As a result of these statutory changes, we have updated our RSE Policy. If you would like to comment on or give feedback on this revised KWS RSE Policy, it can be found on the KWS website at this link.

Any comments or feedback should be directed to either Mr Laing (Assistant Headteacher) or Mr Hiscock (Head of PSHE).

 

Survey reminder

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Our school is a community built on partnership, and your voice – alongside that of our students and staff – is a vital ingredient in our continued growth. The annual survey allows us to hear from everyone; every perspective helps us paint a complete picture of our vibrant school life. It is also a wonderful opportunity to pause and celebrate the successes of our students and our school over the past year. While there are sections to provide constructive feedback, I particularly encourage you to use the later questions to highlight and thank staff members or teams who have made a positive difference in your child’s journey. Your recognition means the world to our hardworking staff, and by sharing what we are doing well, you help us ensure that those strengths remain at the heart of everything we do.  The survey will close Monday 25th May.