As the examination period approaches, I cannot help but
marvel at the tremendous work that is being done throughout the College. At lunchtimes, in the evenings and before the
start of the day, students and staff can be seen beavering away on revision
sessions, techniques for learning and any "last-minute"
explanations. This is a critical period
and a key factor in the success of our College. I would urge you all to take the opportunity
available and listen to the advice and guidance offered by the staff.
It has been a very successful year and one that continues
right up to the last day of term (28th June). It is important that all first year students
on BTEC and AS programmes of study realise this and refrain from assuming that
the academic year finishes after the exams.
I have been a little disappointed by the number of requests for holidays
during term time. On each occasion I
have stated that it is College policy that any holidays during term time will
be unauthorised and could have an influence on the decision to allow students
to progress on to the second year.
As always, apart from the preparation for examinations, this
has been a busy term with music concerts at Holy Trinity Church in Hull and the
Minster in Beverley; examination practicals in PE, Performing Arts, Music and
Science, and the extended examinations in Art and Design.
These last few weeks are critical and can make all the
difference between achieving one's potential and not; between getting into the
first choice University and the first choice course; between securing a place
on the Higher level apprenticeship at a prestigious company and not. However, it is also the period when the
weather improves, with extended daylight hours and the "draw of the
outdoors". With the onset of the “hay
fever season” and the rising temperatures, I cannot help feeling that we have
not got it quite right. However, with
the abolition of January examinations and the proposed move to terminal
examinations at the end of 2 years, many other wholescale structural changes
will be necessary to the academic calendar, including the start of the academic
term in the school/college/university year.
I cannot but despair at the reports in the press about longer days and
the reduction in the number of holidays.
I doubt if it will contribute to raising standards and will have a
negative impact on the commitment of staff and students.
The Bank Holiday weekend was much-needed, not least for the
beautiful weather but also my football team's 'small' contribution to the
success of Hull City. I think that it
will have a big impact on the reputation of the city and all who are associated
with Hull. Staying with the football
metaphor, my team has a new manager with a different style and philosophy, a
manager that will certainly be 'strengthening' the team and squad for the
challenges ahead. We have certainly been
doing that and I would like to thank all the students who have contributed to
the selection process by participating in the lessons and offering views. As always, I am delighted and proud of the
insight, perception and kindness shown by all of you in ensuring that Wyke
Sixth Form College continues to improve and is ready for the challenges ahead.
As my 'friend' Bob sings:
"…….. May your wishes all come true
May
you always do for others
And
let others do for you
May
you build a ladder to the stars
And
climb on every rung
May
you stay forever young."
Good luck to all of you in the forthcoming examinations.
