Headteacher's Weekly Update

Dear Families

I’m excited to share with you the highlights of another eventful week at Aureus School.
We’re delighted to welcome back a former Aureus Head Prefect who, after achieving
exceptional GCSE results, chose to continue his studies at Didcot Sixth. He has decided to return
to the school that shaped him, to offer invaluable one-to-one support to our GCSE students as
they prepare for their exams.

This week, we have been emphasising the importance of respectful behaviour during social
times. Addressing concerns raised by students regarding the cleanliness and ambiance of
certain areas, particularly the toilets. We’ve implemented measures to ensure staff presence
alongside the help of some Aureus Ambassadors. This collaborative effort has already made a
significant difference in maintaining a positive environment.

Our Aureus Ambassadors, exemplary students who get it right every day, met to contribute to
the ongoing evaluation of our school values. Together, they reflected on what defines our
Aureus community and what we aspire for our school. Stay tuned for the upcoming vote on
these essential values.

Congratulations to our Year 11 students for their conduct during their mock exams this week.
Despite the inevitable exam fatigue, they have shown resilience and dedication. They will
receive the necessary feedback and support in the coming weeks to ensure focussed study for
the final weeks.

We were honoured to host Julian Drinkall, the new CEO of GLF, at Aureus School this week. His
visit provided an opportunity to showcase the exceptional progress we’re making as a school,
emphasising our commitment to student feedback and swift action in response. His positive
feedback reinforces our collective efforts.

Undoubtedly, the highlight of the week was our exhilarating singing competition. Witnessing the
enthusiasm and pure joy in the faces of Year 7 and Year 8 students as they sang their hearts out,
accompanied by some fabulous dance moves, was a true testament to their hard work and
dedication, learning how to project their voices effectively.

Next week, we are delighted to remind you about the Parents and Carers Association
community quiz on February 1st at 6:30pm. This quiz is open to friends and family of the school
community and is to raise money to be spent in school to enhance your child's education. It
promises to be a fantastic evening of fun and laughter.

Finally, we kindly ask that you are mindful when posting or sharing photos of other people’s
children on social media without their explicit permission. There may be safeguarding reasons
behind why a student’s photos cannot be shared online, or it may simply hurt somebody’s
feelings. As a community, we need to support each other, and young people’s mental health and
wellbeing is vital for their positive development. While we encourage sharing positive
experiences about our school, we also value open communication. If you have any concerns,
please come to us first to give us the opportunity to address them.

As always, we are immensely proud of our students and grateful for the continued support of
our staff and parents. Together, we’re creating a thriving learning community at Aureus School.

Kind Regards

Kirsty Rogers
Headteacher