The last few weeks have brought mixed fortunes to the school. The stormy weather has, once again, exposed the fragility of parts of the building - with the usual leaks and damage. Parents should be aware that the school is scheduled for a £14 million rebuild, starting in 2008. This cannot come quickly enough, but in the interim we must ensure that our pupils have the facilities they need.

There has been the usual round of success, both within and beyond the classroom. I attended the Shakespeare Festival at the West Yorkshire Playhouse last month. Four schools participated on that particular evening - Priesthorpe performed a shortened version of the Merchant of Venice, displaying considerable talent and imagination. We also had a very successful ski visit to Austria over half-term.

These things are important to any school - developing talents and personal skills, but the core business of any school is still focussed on achievements in the classroom.

As we enter the ‘examination season’ many parents and carers will be helping their children with preparation and revision. There is a lot of support for this in school - if you are unsure, please contact us.

Finally, I have to report that there have been one or two serious breaches of discipline recently. Unfortunately, I have had to exclude several pupils, but add that some of the ‘reasons’ rumoured for this are entirely false! However, I would like to bring to your attention the statement below, and ask that you re-inforce the message with your son / daughter.