News

Whilst many enjoyed warm weather in the UK over the Easter break, a group of Year 9 pupils embarked on an exciting journey to colder climates in Austria for a week of skiing adventure and fun.

Despite the early morning wake-up calls, the excited young skiers showed incredible enthusiasm as they prepared for the day ahead. There were many different skiing abilities within the group but it was fantastic to see every pupil demonstrate perseverance and teamwork whilst out on the slopes. Many were also in awe of the stunning landscape and breath-taking backdrop!

Mr Williams said ‘pupils were a real credit to themselves, their families and the school. We received lots of praise for being respectful in the hotel, local restaurants as well as the maturity shown in the ski groups throughout the days. The travel providers even told us that the coach had been the cleanest they had seen throughout the season whilst travelling to Austria. Students really embraced the accountabilities that were required of them throughout the trip to ensure it ran smoothly with their punctuality and organisational skills. For the coach drivers, hotel and restaurants to invite JTHS back next year is so lovely to hear. Thank you for a great trip.’

The experience wasn't just about skiing, it was also about building lasting friendships and creating unforgettable memories. Pupils had numerous opportunities to bond with peers through various social activities. From enjoying ice cream to competing in friendly pool games, dancing at an evening disco and trying out the pizzeria, there was something for everyone to get involved in.

Well done to everyone and thank you to the dedicated team of teachers who accompanied the pupils. The supportive nature within the group created a great atmosphere between everyone. The trip finished with an award presentation evening which was enjoyed by all!

Our final ‘Hot Chocolate with the Head’ of the term recognised pupils who excelled in the recent UK Olympiad Linguistics Competition and achieved Silver status.

The group had been selected to take part in the competition for their aptitude in linguistics where they engaged in a series of challenging tasks which tested their language skills. The group of pupils said that they enjoyed the tasks they were presented with which required logic, pattern recognition and translation skills.

Miss Smoker, Teacher of MFL, made the nomination as the group had shown an incredible amount of perseverance. She said ‘Working closely together, the students used their problem-solving skills and learn to identify patterns within languages. Each challenge not only tested their abilities but also strengthened their teamwork, resilience and collaboration. Participating in the Olympiad wasn’t just about winning; it was about growing as learners and developing a passion for languages’.

Well done to Alex B, Amelia S, Bohemia H, Felicity S, Isabella N, Jessica F, Juppnie K, Laura G, Lexi C, Suhavi K and Wilfred A. We hope you enjoyed your delicious hot chocolate and goodies this morning.

The John Taylor High School Sixth Form Show 2025 was a remarkable display of student talent and community spirit. On 10^th April, students and staff took to the stage to showcase their hidden talents. The supportive atmosphere was evident with lots of cheering and applause from fellow students, demonstrating the strong sense of community within the school. A special shout out to our staff performers too!

The event highlighted how John Taylor High School Sixth Form goes beyond academic excellence by providing students with numerous opportunities for personal growth and development. Students can participate in various extracurricular activities that help them reach their full potential by showcasing their talents, interests and overall wellbeing.

Any money raised during the show was donated to charity. Here is the link: https://bravetheshave.macmillan.org.uk/shavers/c7450a5a-9ed7-4783-aa8d-d7b485092cd1

Mr Legood, Assistant Headteacher and Director of Post 16, expressed his pride in the Sixth Form students' performances, stating ‘What a fantastic evening, I am so proud of our talented Sixth Form who impressed everyone with their spectacular acts. Everyone should be incredibly proud of themselves as they have not only perfected their acts, but they have maintained a high level of schoolwork during this busy period’.

Well done to all our acts who are listed below:

Students: Elian A, C Cotterill, Avi O, Shauna S, Angus S, Henry C, Isla J, Korbyn B, Hugo E, George K, Eve N, Faith M, Kharl H

Staff: Mrs Cotterill, Mr Crowther, Mr Kimber, Ms Bale, Miss Spurrier, Mr Brackstone, Mr Rostron

Year 4 Primary Football Festival

Thank you to our Sports Leaders and Young Sporting Ambassadors for demonstrating exceptional organisational skills at the Year 4 Primary School Football Festival.

The Young Sporting Ambassadors welcomed the primary school pupils from Shobnall, Rangemore, Needwood & Mosley and led them to the field ready for the Sports Leaders to lead the warm-up and organise the heats. Their dedication to creating a competitive and fun experience for the younger players was admirable!

During the games, the level of skill and team-spirit from the primary pupils was fantastic to watch, they were a credit to their schools. It was great to hear them talking about tactics and supporting each other from the side-lines with lots of cheering and high-fives.

Mrs Berry and Mrs Roberts was delighted that the event was yet again a great success. The winners were presented with a trophy and the teams were presented with certificates. Well done to everyone involved.

What a pleasure to re-unite the cast of ‘Back to the 80s’ this week and let them enjoy some delicious ice-lollies, watch their incredible performance on the big screen & collect their certificates! Mr Roxburgh said ‘we were blown away with the undeniable talent in dance, theatre, music and sound production and wanted to treat all the pupils for showing so much professionalism. Not only this, but the cast have become one big family. They have supported each other, created friendships and been selfless throughout’.

Well done to all of you!

Pupils spread Easter joy amongst our local community this week and demonstrated the true meaning of our ‘One Community’ ethos. The Sporting Young Ambassador’s volunteered their time to deliver Easter chocolate, seeds, bookmarks, handwritten cards and crafts to residents in Palmer Close. 

The initiative, coordinated by Mrs Berry, exemplifies how pupils’ can make a meaningful impact in their community through simple acts of kindness, one of school’s core values. The Young Sporting Ambassadors not only delivered gifts but also engaged in conversations with the residents, creating valuable connections. This type of interaction helps build stronger community bonds and teaches students important social skills.

The residents truly appreciated the thoughtful gesture with one gentleman saying that it ‘gave him a slice of happiness in his day’. 

Thank you to the Sporting Young Ambassadors and Mrs Berry for bringing together the community with their heartwarming gesture.

End of Term Celebration Assembly

This week, Year 7 to Year 13 pupils received recognition for a diverse range of achievements at the end of term Celebration Assembly. Despite the pupils’ various achievements, what united them was their exemplary demonstration of the school’s core values and showing personal excellence.

The awards included, Subject Awards, Form Tutor Awards, Head of Year Awards and Personal Excellence Awards.

Mr Blanchenot, Headteacher, said ‘congratulations to the winners. Striving for personal excellence is at the heart of our school so there’s nothing better to see that these pupils have shown kindness, integrity, perseverance and respect during lessons. Our incredible staff aim to develop our students which helps them be the best they can be. It makes me incredibly proud when students participate and seize every opportunity that the school has to offer. Thank you for being inspirational role models within our school community’.

Award Winners

Year 7

Year 7 Subject Awards

English: Elijah B, Lucy F

History: Nancy B, Ollie W

Religious Studies: Annie B

Computer Science: Thomas C, Sophie G

PE: Sophie G

Art: Dexter R

Maths: Jaden M, Evie R

Year 7 Form Tutor Awards

7Y: Maisie R, Dexter R

7H: Mya H, Sophie G

7L: Huw J, Isla S

7R: Maheen F, Reuben M

7J: Felicity G, William G

7T: Isa M, Sophia P

7A: Fatimah A, Jack B

7O: Alfie B & Skylar-Neve W

Year 8

Year 8 Subject Awards

Religious Studies: Maram B, Noah G

Art: Dylan C

Computer Science: Billy G, Sadie H

PE: Sophie H

History: Jessica S, Noah W

PE: Noah W

English: Maddie W, Kyrolo K

Art: Rabia W, Dylan C

Maths: Jacob H, Daisy H

Science: Tom H, Alice R

Geography: Thomas H, Sophie H

Music: Amelia G, Eli H

Year 8 Tutor Awards

8J: Evie N, Noah E

8T: Mollie E, Isaac B

8A: Amelie C, Kyrylo K

8Y: Hollie C, Angus M

8L: Lauren H, Dakota J

8O: Olivia P, Sam L

8R: Erika N, Oliver G

8H: Minnie S, Eli H

Year 9

Year 9 Subject Awards

Computer Science: Oskar A, Tallulah B

English : Alexander B, Daria D

History: Alexandra C, Oliver H

Art: Ethan F, Charlotte W

Religious Studies: Adiel N, Thomas R

Maths: Ollie C, Jessica G

Science: William C, Bohemia H

RS: Thomas R, Adiel N

PE: Monty C, Emilia B, Tallulah B

Geography: Freddie H & Alexandra C

Music: Thomas R & Jessica F

Year 9 Form Tutor Awards

9J: Elsie P, Finley D

9T: Amelia P, Jenson B

9A: Daisey S, Antony B

9Y: Alys J, Oliver H

9L: Amy E, Isaac J

9O: Esme L, Tyler-James B

9R: Ellie G, Freddie H

9H: Holly M, Thomas R

Year 10

Year 10 Subject Awards

English: Amelia C, Habibah S, Jacob S

Health & Social Care: Habibah S, Thomas H

Business: Emelia C, Joe B

Computer Science: Alice F

Science: Luca M, Alice R

History: Will T

English: Dominic B

Religious Studies: Jake D, Beatrice B

History: Jessica N

PE: Beth F

Year 10 Form Tutor Awards

10L: Silver T, Moses T, Ava B, Michael S, Joshua R, Isabella B, Lily C, Callum S

10O: Kamila K, Joe B, George J, Rosie M, George H, Chloe W, Chloe W, Barnaby L

10H: Lewis R, Laura L, Ryan S, Lexie S, Henry C, Izzy B, Louise H, Jack A

10A: Habibah S, Tristian L, Ava L, Sam N, Jessica W, Archie H, Amelia C, Aart H, Mia M, Edward H

10R: Abbi C, Issac M, Dottie R, Luca M, Dan B, Elisa M, Josh S, Jessica G

10J: Roman C, Kailin W, Harry Millar, Eden G

10T: Darcey W, Isaac L, Joel O, Manayal S, Lily B, Mason H, Emeilia C, Rory S

10 Y: Arwen G, Millie K, ben L, Isla P, Lewis L, Charlotte H, Amelie R, Malachy L

Year 11

11R:

Respect: Dillan

Integrity: Adam L

Kindness: Honey S

Perseverance: Ella H

11Y:

Respect: Charlie W

Integrity: Maria P

Kindness: Jayney B

Perseverance: Ella M

11A:

Respect: Freddie Y

Integrity: Zara D

Kindness: Connie W

Perseverance: Darci M

11L:

Integrity - Kiera S

Respect - Jensen H

Kindness - Shayanti P

Perseverance - Eshan U

Year 12

Year 12 Subject Awards

Art: Abigail S, Harry R

History: Elliot C, Evelyn P

PE: Chloe G, Thomas S

Religious Studies: Amelie M, Harry M

Physics: Hannah M, Nathanial W

Computer Science: Louise M, Sam Y

ICT : Guy B, Kannedi U

Health & Social Care: Patricia P, Sydnie S

Business: Daisy C, Oliver S

BTEC Business: Henry G, Sydnie S

Economics: William L, Luke W

English Language: Korbyn B, Isla J

English Literature: Ellie W, Angus S

Law: Charlie Crump, Philippa S

Psychology: Nelson R, Ruby D

Environmental Science: Gabriel H, Henry C

Sociology: Laiba K, Trae H

Biology: Imogen W, Nelson R

French : Evelyn P, Evelyn C

Human Biology and Applied Science: MJ H, Matthew E

Drama: Shauna S, Angus S 

Year 12 Personal Excellence Award

Sydnie S and Jacky Z

Year 13

Year 13 Subject Awards

Art: Erica S

Business (A-Level): Meleesha K, Momodou S

Business (BTEC): Lydia C, George H

Computer Science: Tom M

Economics: Callum K, Ruby W

English: Amelia C, Caitlyn M, Kharl H

Environmental Science: Eve N, Sam W

Health & Social Care: Emine H, Holly W

History: Tilly B, Jonathan B

ICT: Thomas C, Georgina R

Law: Phoebe B, Ben G

PE / Sport: Harry J, Ruby T

Physics: Loulou G, William P

Psychology: George C, Lacy W

Religious Studies: Adam A, Lacy W

Sociology: Caitlyn M, Momodou S

Year 13 Form Tutor Awards

13J: Thomas C, Jess T

13S: Isabelle G, Finn K

13I: Jonathan B, Katie B, Leo H

13X: Oliver W, Elizabeth W

13T: Loulou G, Lacy W

13H: William P, Ruby T

13F: Eve N, Olivia W

Year 13 Head of Year Awards

Behaviour: Antoni T

Uniform: Amelia B

Punctuality: Sam W

Attendance: Noah E, Harry J, Callum K

School Values: Leo H, Jess T

Sent on Behalf of Mr David Martin, Chair of Governors

Dear All

I am delighted to announce the result of the Teaching Staff Governor election.  The election was closely contended, and Mrs Anna Ball has been elected as Teaching Staff Governor with effect from 28^th April 2025.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Mrs Buckland and all those that voted in the election.

The governing body is looking forward to welcoming Mrs Ball to our next meeting on 28^th April. 

With kind regards

Dave Martin

Please book onto extra-curricular activities via Evolve. Please speak to the PE staff if you are unsure about booking on, they will be able to help and add you to the register!

The Sixth Form Games is now an established event in the Year 12 & Year 13s calendar, following the success of previous sporting events organised by Head Student, Andrew Groves.

Teams took to the field to compete in a rounders tournament. The Head Students and House Leaders showed exceptional organisational skills. From the planning and logistics to risk assessments and scheduling, the co-ordination of the event was seamless, all whilst maintaining a positive attitude. Through effective collaboration with peers and teachers, Andrew's efforts culminated in a highly successful and exciting rounders tournament for the Sixth Form students.

The event also created a high level of community spirit. It was also great to see those who weren’t involved in the matches get behind their peers and cheer them on.

Well done to everyone involved!

Thank you to our local residents for their wonderful feedback from our recent Community Afternoon Tea. 

Our stars of the week enjoyed ‘Hot Chocolate with the Head’ with Mr Blanchenot today as they celebrated their achievements and well-earned chocolate goodies!

Emilia, Evie, Ralph, Eva, Adele, Daisy, Sophie, Sadie, Lauren, Daniella, Amelia, Dakota, Sophie, Sophie, Junior, Scarlett, Halchi, Maddie and Rabia had all been nominated by Mr Weighall, LRC Manager, for their inspiring creativeness and story-telling efforts.

Whilst the group enjoyed their hot chocolate, Mr Weighall had showcased their artwork in the LRC for everyone to see. Not only did this add lots of colour and interest into the LRC, but the pupils felt a real sense of pride to have their work displayed especially for Mr Blanchenot to see. Some pupils are in fact still working on their artwork!

The work was set by Mrs Clayton during her Art Club in collaboration with the activities for World Book Day. The group of Year 8 pupils created a map based on their favourite work of fiction and included popular titles such as The Memory Thieves, The Secret Garden, The Boy The Mole The Fox and The Horse, The Wilds, The Lion Witch and The Wardrobe and more. The group then explored the idea of using their maps as a storytelling device which really impressed Mr Weighall.

Mr Blanchenot said ‘the group had shown an incredible amount of perseverance and produced fantastic pieces of work at Art Club and in their own time. Well done to everyone for demonstrating one of our schools core values’.  

PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers) stands as one of the world's leading professional services firms, offering exciting career paths for students looking to enter the business world. It was a pleasure to welcome Helen Gardner, Business Support Lead from PwC and parent to one of our Sixth Formers, who delivered an exceptional and inspiring presentation to our Year 12 pupils in assembly this morning.

Helen began by impressing our pupils with some stats such as; PwC have over 28,000 employees globally across 150+ countries, 19 office locations in the UK and that they serve over 25,000 clients. For the pupils, it gave them the opportunity to see the scope of what they could be involved in should they want to take a career path with PwC.

PwC offers several pathways for students to begin their careers. These include the Virtual Insight Programme, the School Leaver Programme, the Flying Start Degree Programmes and the Undergraduate Programmes whilst at University.

Whilst all these options require a rigorous application process PwC are there to support every step of the way. Mrs Ball, who organised the session has circulated the presentation to all Year 12 students which includes more details.

We would like to thank Helen and would love to welcome her back to deliver assemblies in the future to give our pupils a better understanding of routes into business, accounting, and consulting careers. Their various programs accommodate different educational preferences and career goals, allowing pupils to choose the path that best suits their aspirations.

For more information about the careers provision at JTHS, please email Mrs Ball (CEIAG) [email protected]

The following students celebrated their achievements with Mr Blanchenot this week, congratulations to them all!

Dear Parents/Carers,

RE: 011 new bus for Edingale and Croxall, from Monday 28^th April 2025

Please find the new bus times for Edingale and Croxall pupils on the new 011 service (formerly the 081), which will operate from Monday 28^th April 2025.

All current passes for Service 081 will end on Friday 11 April 2025, and new passes for Service 011 will be posted to pupil’s home address in time for commencement of the Summer Term. All parents of eligible pupils have been emailed by Staffordshire County Council.

We are aware that there are a small number of pupils who are not eligible for free transport and board and pay a fare to travel. Therefore, they have not been contacted directly by Staffs County Council.

Here are the new times for the 011:

Route description: Edingale, Mary Howard School bus shelter, Croxall Road, Walton Road, A513, Chetwynd Bridge (7.5t restriction), A513, Rykneld Street, A38, Burton Road, A38, Dogshead Lane, Efflinch Lane, Barton-under-Needwood, Efflinch Lane, Main Street, Dunstall Road, John Taylor High School.

Please be reminded that pupils from Coton/Rosliston/Drakelow/Walton/Catton will now use the 248 service from Monday 28^th April. Times for the 248 can be found here.

We understand the importance of providing suitable dining spaces for all pupils during lunch period. Following the Year 7 parental feedback, we want to clarify the various locations available for pupils who bring packed lunches to school.

Our pupils have multiple options for enjoying their packed lunch. During pleasant weather, many students take advantage of our general outdoor spaces and picnic benches. For those who prefer covered areas and in the colder months, we have two dedicated undercover seating areas. Additionally, our school hall is open daily for students bringing packed lunches. In the event that the hall is being used for other activities, we open two alternative classrooms to ensure students always have a place to eat.

We want to assure you that we have made accommodations to provide adequate space for all students, regardless of whether they choose to purchase lunch from our school canteen or bring their own. These various locations ensure that every student has a comfortable space to enjoy their meal.

Thank you to those who took the time to complete the Year 7 parental feedback. If you have any additional questions about our lunch facilities, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Sixth Form Absences

If you wish to report an absence due to illness, please ring the dedicated absence line on 01283 376751 each day of the absence. 

If you wish to inform us of a Planned Absence (less than one day for an appointment), please click the link below and complete the Sixth Form Planned Absence Form. 

If you wish to apply for a Leave of Absence (more than one day), please click the link below and complete the Sixth Form Leave of Absence Request Form.

Please upload evidence of ALL appointments.

Sixth Form Attendance - John Taylor High School

Thank you!

The Sixth Form Team