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Month: June 2022

Farewell to Miss Ban!

Farewell to Miss Ban!

Unfortunately, the time has come for staff and students at Carisbrooke College to say goodbye to Miss Ban – our wonderful Chinese language assistant. 

After joining us last September, Miss Ban has spent the year helping students in all year groups with their Mandarin studies. She has worked in both KS3 and KS4 classes and has proved invaluable in every lesson she has been in. She was of particular assistance to the year 11s in the lead up to their GCSE spoken and written exams, offering help with both vocabulary and grammar and providing essential feedback to each of them.

Despite her calm and quiet personality, Miss Ban commands respect and many students have benefitted immensely this year from her reliability and professionalism. Although next week will be her last here with us before she returns to China, everyone at Carisbrooke hopes she’ll stay in touch with us for many years to come.

Thank you for all your hard work this year, Josie, and we wish you all the best with whatever comes next.

送 別  by  王維

山 中 相 送 罷
日 暮 掩 柴 扉
春 草 明 年 綠
王 孫 歸 不 歸

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Skyborne at Gloucester Airport Visit

Skyborne at Gloucester Airport Visit

A group of Year 12 travel and tourism students recently visited Skybourne at Gloucester airport. Skyborne is an innovative airline training academy.

Students enjoyed workshops, presentations and demonstrations about roles within the airline industry.

Representatives from British Airways and Easyjet were on hand to answer any questions regarding recruitment and roles within the sector. It was an informative event that the students found  interesting and useful.




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End of Year Art Show

End of Year Art Show

Students from the Foundation Diploma in Art & Design course recently showcased their hard work in an end of year exhibition show at the Independent Arts Creative Hub in Newport. 

A private view was held on the evening of Saturday 11 June where staff, parents, governors and members of the local arts community were invited to have a first look at the finished pieces. The exhibition then remained in place and open to the public for the next week. 

This was the first time that a show of this kind has been able to go ahead since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, so both staff and students were very excited to finally be able to showcase their hard work again. 

This year, students approached subjects such as spirituality, female control, movement of dance, split personality disorder, and other intriguing concepts.  The students created interesting and artistic responses to their research, working across the disciplines of sculpture, painting, photography, digital art, textiles and illustration. We also exhibited some beautiful examples of miniature kimonos from our year 13 Fashion students’ final project.

Course Leader for the Foundation Diploma in Art & Design, Hannah Woodford said “I have been so impressed by the commitment and professionalism shown by the students this year. It is clear to see the dedication and effort that they have put into their final projects and it was amazing to be able to show everyone the standard of work that has been produced. We can’t wait to see where these talented students progress to next and will be following their exciting journeys ahead.”






















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Head of School’s Blog – 24 June 2022

24 June 2022

Congratulations to Year 13 students for finishing their exams this week, I look forward to seeing you at the Prom next Thursday.  There is a slight change to Exams results day, it will be held in the Lower Common room rather than the Hall. One thing that hasn’t changed is that you will need ID to pick up your results. If someone else is picking them up, we need a letter from you before we break up (22/07/22) stating that you give permission for the named person to pick up the results on your behalf (they will need their own ID as well).

Year 12, your Trial exams start on Monday 27th June and run for a week and a day. During the exams you are on study leave unless you do a vocational subject (you should have spoken to your teachers about expectations / attendance).  Normal lessons resume on Tuesday 5th July. Best of luck, I’m sure all of your revision and preparation will pay off.

Renovations and redecoration are still continuing, thank you for cooperation. The Hall is getting new lighting, fire doors and a new floor (in the summer holidays) to go along with the new roof put on last summer.  From September students will not be able to gain access to the building via the Hall, this is because of site security and the safety of students and staff. The student entrance with your student lanyard, will be your only point of access to the building.

Seating and paper display boards are going to be removed from corridors over the coming weeks, this is because in the event of a fire they would provide fuel for a fire to spread from one area to another. We are looking at alternatives to replace the removed items and I thank you for your understanding.

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Head of School’s Blog – 17 June 2022

17 June 2022

It has been a mixed week for year 11, with their exams continuing in earnest but also having their leavers assembly. It was a very emotional event for some (Mr Williams!), as it is the culmination of five years worth of hard work and investment. These five years have been different to those experienced by decades of previous Year 11s and I am proud of how they have risen to each of the challenges that they have faced and approached them with maturity and resilience.  Please continue to remind the students that they do need to be in full uniform for their exams and ensure that they are on time. We are still here to support them so please do contact us and remind them that they can do the same if they do have concerns or questions. 

This week you will have received the notification of our consultation to merge with HISP MAT.  I would like to reassure you that this is being done with the best interests of the current and future students at the heart of it. I want the opportunities and experience that all students who attend an Isle of Wight Education school to be the best that they can have. They deserve it. We feel that this provides the opportunity to further develop the journey that we have started. Please remember there is a parent/carer FAQs document, which may answer many of your questions/concerns, this can be found on our website here. If you have a comment that you would like to contribute, please do complete the consultation form which can be found here.  This can be a concern but can also be a message of positive support, both are important to know. If you have questions or would like to discuss your concerns then please email, anna.mursell@iwef.org.uk who can arrange a phone call with me. This may then help inform a representation you may wish to make. 

Many parents/carers are asking about the return to school in September. The following dates are now set.  Thursday 1 September, Friday 2 September and Monday, 5 September are development days.  Tuesday 6 September is the first day back for what will be Year 7 and Year 11, Wednesday 7 September, all year groups return to school.

From Tuesday 21 June we will be pushing a bit harder on late students. In each half term, any student who is late three or more times will receive an after school detention of one hour that day. We are trying to remind students of the need for good habits.

As a reminder, this Monday 20 June is our reassigned Bank Holiday in lieu on the Queen’s Jubilee. Therefore, we will be closed to all students except Year 11 who are sitting exams. Work will not be set as it is effectively a Bank Holiday. As communicated, the buses for Year 11 will run as normal, both before and after school. Please continue to allow time for the one way system that will still be in place on Monday morning. 

We look forward to welcoming all other students back on Tuesday, in full school uniform and ready to learn. 

Enjoy the Festival if you are going, if not then enjoy your weekend and some sunshine. 

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Year 7 Girls Cricket

Year 7 Girls Cricket

We had a great afternoon at Christ the King College on Tuesday with our Year 7 cricketers. We were defeated, nevertheless, we demonstrated some wonderful fielding, batting and bowling.

Mrs Tuck’s highlight was the non-stop giggling on the minibus.

We had more great cricket with our girls and the Isle of Wight Cricket Board on Wednesday. We played against The Bay and The Island Free School.

Great play all round and even more giggling on the bus.

Well done girls, we are very proud! 


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Year 11’s Final Assembly

Year 11’s Final Assembly

On Tuesday afternoon we said an emotional farewell to our year 11 students in their final assembly. 

Students were treated to a musical medley performance from our Maestros, a personalised version of Greenday’s “Time of Your Life” by Mrs Connor and a final performance from Mr Williams. They also watched a video montage of the students’ last five years. 

Awards were presented for the final time for each subject area and each tutor group. A video was shown that staff had put together to wish the students well for the future and then, finally, Mr Williams gave a speech about the year group and awarded his Head of Year award. 

After shirt signing, selfies and a treat from the ice cream van, students departed. 

Thank you to the staff involved in putting this final assembly together to make it a special event for the students. 

Award Winners

Award Student Winner Citation
English Axel Although a naturally gifted English student, Axel has still put every effort into ensuring his success in this subject; quotations have been learnt and extra essays and papers. As a result, Axel has produced some of the most sophisticated responses that I have ever seen. Very well done!
Maths Joe Joe has embraced the challenge of working extremely hard in Maths. He has used hard work and resilience to mature mathematically. He has become increasingly confident and this has shown in his assessments. He continues to work hard and is striving for the optimum. Well done Joe you should be proud of your achievements thus far.
Science Joe Joe has made great progress over the last 2 years in science, he has gone above and beyond in his work, always completing homework and classwork to a very high standard and because of this great work ethic, he has taken on learning work for the higher tier in his own time. Congratulations Joe and good luck with whichever endeavour you take on next.
Computer Science Zach Zach has been the most consistent student over the course. He has always worked hard and applied himself to every task set before him. I wish him the best for the future.
Spanish Reuben Ruben has shown a marked improvement in his confidence in Spanish over the last year, he is always willing to give an answer and his vocabulary recall in the last few months has been excellent.
French Jess I have been totally impressed with Jess’s effort over the past couple of years. Her French has improved incredibly. She has worked hard and been an absolute joy to teach and I have just loved her witty comments if not verging on the sarcastic side!
Latin Georgie Georgie has developed into a truly excellent Latinist over these last 5 years. She has worked hard , listened carefully , learned from any (rare) mistakes and she is now confidently translating passages that would terrify most Year 11 Latin students ! She has been an absolute pleasure to teach.
Music Jake Jake has worked tremendously hard throughout the GCSE course, and continues to impress us all with his knowledge of 70s prog rock bands. He deserves to do very well this summer, well done Jake.
Music Technology Makenzi Makenzi has been nominated for this award as he has made so much progress during year 11 in particular. His effort and attitude since September 2021 have been fantastic and it clearly shows in his work and results. Well done Makenzi and all the best for next year!
Drama Josh Joshua has progressed phenomonly in Drama, producing two performances of outstanding quality. Joshua is always there to drive his group forward to achieve their best. Throughout the course of year 10 and 11, Joshua has also improved the quality of his written work, showing clear and insightful responses to the exam questions, becoming a thorough and reflective performer.
Food Technology Maisie Maisie has gone above and beyond to develop her skills and knowledge. She has certainly taught me a few things about french cooking and the pronunciation! Well done Maisie it has been a pleasure to teach you. Very best wishes for the future.
Product Design Maya Maya has put 100% effort into her coursework and is always looking for ways to improve. It has been a pleasure to teach her over the last three years and I wish her the best for her future.
Child Development Mia Mia has shown herself to be a talented, determined and capable student who has worked consistently hard in Child Development. Her positive attitude supports her in ensuring that her work is always of the highest quality. Always able to make us smile and support others within discussion, I have no doubt that Mia is destined to be a huge success. Best of luck as Mia as you move into the next chapter of learning.
Health and Social Care Kirsty Kirsty’s hard work, good humour and teamwork has been superb this year. She has embraced the tasks set with enthusiasm and real desire to do well. Well done Kirsty, a brilliant end to the course.
Art Alicia It has been a real pleasure watching Alicia really progress over the past 3 years. She has pushed herself and shown real enthusiasm for the creative pieces she has developed. We are very proud of you Alicia and all that you have achieved. Well done!
Graphics Alfie Alfie is determined, enthusiastic and always tries his best. He has listened to feedback given and worked through challenges which have faced him. It has been a pleasure having him in the group and we wish him the best for his next journey.
Photography Taylor Taylor’s interest, enthusiasm and effort has not waned over the three years of the course. An excellent photographer and a great student to deal with.
Geography Lennon Outstanding attainment throughout the three years of GCSE. Fantastic geographic knowledge and passion for subject.
History Rose Rose has shown a fantastic work ethic and attitude in history this year. She always tries her best in class and has produced some great work. Well done!
Business Ruby Ruby has worked so hard on the run up to her GCSEs. She has attended revision religiously whilst pushes herself and never complains about any extras she has to do. Very proud to have taught her over the last 3 years.
Sports BTEC Bella Bella’s work has been of the highest standard throughout the course and her grade for her unit 1 exam was one of the highest in the cohort and that Medina has seen. Thank you Bella for your enthusiasm and consistent approach to the course.
TEAMS George George is polite and enthusiastic member of this class. He always tries his best and is willing to help those around him. I am very proud of the young man he has grown into and wish him all the best for whatever his next adventure will be.






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Year 11’s Final Assembly

Year 11’s Final Assembly

On Thursday morning we said an emotional farewell to our year 11 students in their final assembly. 

Miss Begley, Mr Peake, Miss Bracegirdle and Mrs Hookey all gave speeches, as well as the four Tutors. Students also spoke about these staff who have played a particularly significant role in their time at Carisbrooke College. 

Awards were presented for the final time for each subject area and each tutor group. Finally, students watched a video put together by staff who had messages of good luck and thanks to the students and a second video which was a montage of images of the students’ last five years. 

After shirt signing and many selfies, the students departed at lunch time. They would have had a treat from the ice cream van but, due to time restraints, this will now happen on Monday 20 June after the students’ exam. 

Thank you to the staff involved in putting this final assembly together to make it a special event for the students. 

Award Winners

Award Student Winner Citation
English Josie For all her hard work and dedication in English.
Maths Jessica, Josie, Sam  consistently working at an exceptionally high level and always giving 100% effort to the subject.
Science Sam Amazing and consistent effort throughout the year in science.
Computer Science Harry Fantastic attitude. Always prepared to complete the tasks to the best of his ability.
Art Shania Shania is an absolute inspiration to others. Despite facing many challenges, she refuses to accept anything other than perfection.
Music Rhiannon Working so very hard and consistently putting one million perfect effort in!
PE Amy For always being competitive since day one in year 7 and doing so with a posiitve and supportive attitude towards others.
Health and Social Care Kayley Excellent comittment and hard work throughout the course.
Food Preparation and Nutrition Isobel The best homemade mango chutney! For stepping up, pushing and challenging yourself to excel.
Design and Technology Dylan Over the last few months Dylan has pulled out all the stops to do as well as possible in Design and Technology. Incredible effort.
Geography Ben Fantastic efforts to achieve his full potential. Always demonstrates a keen interest and is prepared to offer his opinion.
History Matthew Excellent attitude and commitment to his work, always striving to improve and being a delight to teach.
GCSE PE Rhiannon, Kayley, Sophie, Daisy-May, Bethany Outstanding contribution, effort and engagement in PE through the whole course.
Chinese Tehya Outstanding effort, engagement and contribution to Chinese over the last year.
Powerbase Louis, Evgeni Outstanding contribution, effort and engagement in PE through the whole course.
11A Tutor Award Paige Always engaging in activities that make a difference to others and being a positive role model for the school community.
11B Tutor Award Josie Josie is a fantastic student who has an amazing work ethic and attitude to school. Josie is polite, kind and gentle and an absolute pleasure to have in the tutor group.
11C Tutor Award Amy Always engaging in activities that make a difference to others and being a positive role model for the school community.
11D Tutor Award Maryam She has been a constant aid in the PSHE lessons as well as a polite student, always suitably attired and a pleasure to work with.

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Year 10 Duke of Edinburgh Award Final Expedition

The postponed year 10 DofE Award Bronze final expedition went ahead on Thursday 8 and Friday 9 June. 

The three teams of year 10s hiked approximately 10km a day over the two days from Brighstone to Yarmouth, camping at Wight Camp.  They independently planned for the expedition including the route, food and equipment needed. 

The main condition of the Bronze final expedition is to be self sufficient and only supervised remotely.  This means that the students needed to follow the route on their own as well as carrying all their equipment and food needed for the two days.  All three teams did this successfully and to a high standard.   They even seemed to have fun – I think! 

The next stage is for the students to get the rest of their sections and activities finished and they will be receiving their Bronze award. 

Well done all those involved.   It was a great couple days and a pleasure to spend the time with all of the students in the great outdoors.  



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