Ahead of the publication of our Autumn 2 newsletter I wanted to celebrate some of the incredible events from this final week.

Attendance Matters

We’ve placed a strong focus on attendance this term, and we’re thrilled to celebrate over 300 students who earned their 100% attendance badges! Top tutor groups enjoyed hot chocolate and breakfast rewards, and overall attendance has improved by a significant amount compared to the previous year. We absolutely recognise that there have been some very nasty flu, bugs and viruses that have spread around students, we wish anyone struggling with illnesses at this time of year a speedy recovery.

Reverse Advent Challenge

A massive thank you to all our students and families who donated items to support families in need. We had an extraordinary amount of support shown to this initiative from every year group.  We are so proud of the generosity shown by our school community, this will make a huge difference.

BBC Bitesize Careers Roadshow

Students in Years 7–10 enjoyed an inspiring event hosted by a BBC presenter, featuring a panel of professionals from diverse backgrounds. The interactive session opened students’ eyes to exciting career possibilities and encouraged them to think big about their futures.

Sixth Form Charity Fundraisers: Bake sales, henna stalls, and even staff taking part in fun challenges - all for causes chosen by our students. Students have raised over £1500 for humanitarian causes and the MND association. Both charities with significant meaning to our community.

Looking Ahead

Year 11 and Year 13: We strongly encourage Year 11 and 13 students keep a good balance between revision and other activities; we would signpost students to an exciting new online tutor service ‘Exam Jam’ students can sign up for a two-week free trial and as a school we are looking into providing this platform moving forward. They currently over English and Science (Maths will launch in January) All course follows the exact exam and curriculum we follow at OSA.  

https://www.examjam.com/

You can also find the timetables for the February mock exams on our website via the following links:

Year 11 Cycle 2 Mock Exams Timetable Feb 2026

Year 13 Cycle 2 Mock Exams Timetable Feb 26

Keep an eye out for our full newsletter early in the new year, packed with detailed articles and updates for the term ahead.

We wish all our staff, parents, carers, students, and wider community a safe and happy winter break, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back on Monday 5th January 2026.