The behaviour and conduct of pupils in the September mock exams was exemplary, and these assessments will provide teachers with further opportunities to assess pupil progress and address any gaps in knowledge or misconceptions ahead of the GCSE summer exams.

Key information:

• Mock exams shall take place in the Sports Hall for the majority of pupils. Pupils that require access arrangements shall be based in the CLC.
• Pupils will receive their exam timetables and will be informed of their seating arrangements closer to the time – if pupils lose their timetable, they should speak to the exams team who are based in main reception
• Assessments will take place in all subjects. Assessments for subjects that are practical in nature or based on coursework will take place in lessons.
• Pupils will be in normal timetabled lessons if not sitting an exam. Pupils should be in full school uniform as normal throughout.

Details on the content of each exam and subject specific guidance on how to successfully prepare and revise for each assessment can be found at the end of this letter. Additional information will also be provided separately, with pupils receiving hard copies of a more detailed revision guide.

We are providing this information well in advance of the mock exams, as all pupils must start their revision over the Christmas break in order to lead to success. We understand that the lead up to any exams can be a stressful time and encourage pupils to also take a break from their studies over the Christmas period.

In addition, we know that there is a clear and direct correlation between good school attendance and academic success. Pupils that do not attend well will not achieve well and are far more likely to be re-sitting exams and missing out on preferred courses post-16. Please continue to strive to send your child into school, even more urgently than usual in the final term and a half of Year 11.

After Christmas, the pastoral team will be boosted and further supported, with Mrs Boynton taking over as Head of Y11. Her working days are Monday to Thursday. Her role will be to support pupils pastorally with day-to-day issues and concerns, while Mr Crofts will continue to focus on Y11 academic progress and outcomes. This will serve to further support our Year 11 pupils as final summer examinations approach. Mrs Boynton will share a parent voice questionnaire before the Christmas break for parents to raise any specific priorities for January. Her email address is: eboynton2@forgevalley.sheffield.sch.uk

I would also like to take this opportunity to wish you a restful Christmas and all the best for 2026.

Yours faithfully,

J Crofts

Mr J Crofts
Assistant Headteacher (Y11 Impact and Outcomes)