It was a closely contested week, with strong efforts also shown by our runners-up: 11JCY, 7HRN, 7HLD and 9JDL. Well done to all of these tutor groups for their commitment to improving attendance. We look forward to seeing which group will take home the cup next week! (2/2)
Congratulations to 8HFG, who are the first winners of the 'Momentum Makers Cup'. This new weekly award recognises the tutor group that achieves the greatest improvement in attendance compared with the previous school week. (1/2)
Join us for a special community evening to discover the exciting plans for our school rebuild. Hear from Headteacher Nigel Sellars, meet the project team and learn how Gosford Hill School will be transformed for the future. More here: tinyurl.com/bd8x4jpe
For those interested in a bit of history, the swimming pool was built between 1955 and 1957 by Gosford Hill School students themselves, following ambitious plans by then-Headteacher Joe Ainley to provide a safe place for pupils to learn to swim at a cost of £230 (over £7,000 in today's money!) (6/6)
Interestingly, while it was initially thought that no trace of the old swimming pool remained, part of the base (painted light blue) was uncovered in late January. Among the rubble, a distinct corner shaped piece was found. It is fascinating to think that it was hidden for all of this time! (5/6)
Temporary site office buildings for B&K were also craned into place during the week commencing 20th January. Following on from this clearance work, McDermotts, our groundworks team, began excavating the site in preparation for the concrete foundations of the temporary classrooms. (4/6)
For a long time, the old tennis courts were repurposed as a staff car park. By mid-January, this area of the school site had been completely cleared and levelled, ready for the installation of a large two-story temporary classroom building (more on this to follow in our next update). (3/6)
'The Bungalow' was converted into a learning support hub in 2003 after a period of vacancy, and in more recent years was used as a base for the school nurse/counsellor. Some former students/colleagues may remember this area of the school ground being home to a swimming pool and tennis courts. (2/6)
#NewBuildGHS It’s been a while since our last update, so there’s lots to catch up on! Spring term began on 5th January, and by the next afternoon demolition of the former caretaker’s bungalow was underway. After standing for many years, this building was reduced to rubble in only a few days. (1/6)
Thank you to Mr Smith, Mr Williams, Miss Ryan, Mr Goldring and Miss Hall for their leadership and care in making the trip both safe and thoroughly enjoyable. It was a truly rewarding week and a memorable highlight of the school calendar! (4/4)
We have been delighted with the many positive comments received from students and parents alike, particularly regarding the smooth organisation of the trip and the lasting memories created. (3/4)
...building both skill and confidence while enjoying the breathtaking mountain surroundings. A varied evening entertainment programme in the resort ensured that students could unwind and enjoy quality time together after each day’s skiing. (2/4)
During the half term break, 30 students took part in our much-anticipated annual ski trip, travelling this year to Cimone, Italy. The week proved to be a fantastic experience for everyone involved. With five hours of expert instruction each day, pupils made excellent progress on the slopes... (1/4)
Applications for our Sixth Form are now open until Wednesday 28th January. Please visit the Sixth Form section on the school website for more information and to access the online application form: www.gosford-hill.oxon.sch.uk/sixth-form/
🌟 Tonight's the night! 🌟
Parents, carers, friends and alumni of the Gosford Hill School Community, are warmly invited to join us for an informal community meeting to discuss the exciting plans and proposals for the official relaunch of the Friends of Gosford Hill School. More info: tinyurl.com/yc2xp7cv
Our Sixth Form Open Evening takes place next Wednesday 14th January from 5:30pm to 7:30pm. The evening will commence with a talk in the Hall, which we recommend that you attend to ensure that you get a good insight into life at Gosford Hill School Sixth Form. We look forward to seeing you there!
The session was a powerful reminder that success can be achieved in many ways and that exploring a range of experiences is often the best way to discover your passions. A huge thank you to the BBC team for inspiring our students to think big about their futures! (3/3)
The speakers highlighted that there is no single route to success, with pathways ranging from apprenticeships to university and entry-level roles. They also emphasised the importance of soft skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, and communication, alongside technical knowledge. (2/3)
On the final day of the Autumn term, we were privileged to welcome the BBC Bitesize Careers Roadshow, offering students an exciting insight into the world of work and future careers. Students enjoyed a front-row experience as they heard from a panel of industry professionals. (1/3)
Elsewhere on site, a dedicated team has been carrying out asbestos removal works at the former caretaker’s bungalow in preparation for its demolition. More updates to follow in the New Year. (3/3)
Originally constructed in 1950 as the school library, the building served many purposes over the years, including classrooms for Languages, tutor offices and reprographics. In more recent years it was used as a caretaker’s store before standing disused following Covid. (2/3)
#NewBuildGHS Work has continued to progress on site over the past couple of weeks in the lead up to the Christmas break. On Monday 8th December, demolition began on the prefabricated concrete building located on the former Maths playground. Just one day later, it had been completely removed. (1/3)
The cards were sent to our neighbours and to residents of nearby care homes, and we are grateful to the students who helped to write thoughtful messages inside them. We hope this small gesture helped to spread some festive cheer and reflect the kindness and community spirit of our school. (2/2)
Congratulations to Florence, Simrit and Vasee in Year 7 for designing this year’s official school Christmas cards. We were delighted by the number of entries received and would like to thank all students who took part for their creativity and effort. (1/2)
Thank you to our stall holders, to everyone who generously donated prizes for the tombola, and to the students and colleagues who gave their time to lead activities and support the event. Your contributions helped make the afternoon fun for everyone! (3/3)
We were even treated to a special visit from Father Christmas himself (Riley H, 7EMK)! It was lovely to see the Hall bustling with visitors from both our school community and the wider community, all joining together in the festivities. (2/3)
The Hall was filled with festive cheer on Saturday afternoon as we hosted our annual Christmas Fair. There was music from the Gosford Hill Soul Band, plenty of refreshments, craft stalls, and a variety of games for all to enjoy. (1/3)
A raffle rounded off the afternoon, offering a great selection of prizes, including a Christmas tree voucher generously donated by Bunkers Hill Plant Nursery. A big thank you to Nicole and Daniel for organising such a lovely occasion, to Dr Arnold for organising the raffle and to Mr Bateman. (4/4)
We were really pleased to be joined by students from St Thomas More Primary School, who gave wonderful performances of Christmas songs and carols for everyone to enjoy. Afterwards, our special guests joined in a fun quiz followed by a round of bingo, teaming up with some of our students. (3/4)
